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SAFETY COMMITTEE: 

FOR THE TOWN OP 

WILMINGTON, N. Co 

FKOM 1774 TO inS-^PRINTED PROM THE ORIGINAL RSCORB, 
iY THOMAS LORING^-RALEiGH, N. C. 



1844. 



PROCEEDINGS 



OF THE 



SAFETY COMMITTEE 



Wilmington, November 23, 1774. 

At a meeting of the Freeholders in the Court House at Wilmington, 
for the purpose of choosing a Committee for said town, to carry more 
effectually into execution the Resolves of the late Congress held at Phil- 
adelphia, the following names were proposed and universally assented 
to: 

Cornelius Harne.t ; Jno. duince ; Fr's Clayton ; William Hooper ; 
Robert Hogg ; Jno. Ancrura ; Arch'd McLain ; Jno. Robinson ; James 
Walker. 

The Committee then adjourned until 6 o'clock that Evening. 



Wilmington, Nov. 23, 6 o'clock, P. M. 

Present : Arch'd McLain ; Jno. Q,uince ; Jno. Ancrum ; Fr's Clay- 
ton ; James Walker. 

It being then moved that Ancrum, Forster and Brice and others, hav 
ing imported quantities of Teas in the brig Sally, capt. Innes, not know" 
ins: how to dispose of them, had by the interposition of capt. Forster 
informed the Committee thereof, in the Court House, immediately af- 
ter the election craving their advice : It was Resolved — That though 
this application did not come properly under the cognizance of a 
Committee chosen to inspect the conduct of the inhabitants of 
this town, regarding certain Resolves entered into by the Conti- 
Jiental Congress— yet as capt. Foster and the other gentlemen concern- 



ed, choose to walk hand in hand with their approbation, the following- 
letter, to Mr. Hill was agreed to: 

Wilmington, November 23, 1774. 

Mr. Hill : Sir: This day, at a very numerous meeting of the Free- 
holders of this town, for the purpose of appointing a Committee, to car- 
ry more effectually into execution the Resolutions of the late Continen- 
tal Congress, the subscribers to this letter were chosen and compose a 
majority thereof. The first article presented to our notice being a 
quantity of Teas imported by yourself and others, in your brig Sally, 
capt. Innis : we inquire of you, and beg your immediate answer, whe- 
ther said tea may not be regularly remitted by the vessel, and whether 
the Custom-house will in that case have any right to demand the duty 
or refuse clearing her out. 

Signed by all the members present. 

The Committee then adjourned to the 25th inst. 



Wilmington, Nov. 25, 1774, 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 
Present : Arch'd McLain ; Jno. Ancrum ; Robert Hogg ; James 
Walker ; Jno. Quince ; Francis Clayton : 

When Mr, Hill's answer being produced was read as follows : 

Brunswick, Nov. 24, 1774, 

Gentlemen : I cannot take upon me to answer your inquiries con- 
cerning the tea brought into this port by the Sally. The Collector and 
Comptroller, I hear, will be at Wilmington to-morrow, or next day. — 
The management of the King's duty is particularly their department, 
and they will determine whether the tea may regularly be remitted by 
the vessel, or whether the duty is to be paid ; or whether they will 
clear it out. 

The safety of the people is, or ought to be, the Supreme Law : the 
gentlemen of the Committee will judge whether this Law, or an Act of 
Parliament, should, at this particular time, operate in North Carolina. 
1 believe every tea importer will cheerfully submit to their determina- 
tion—I can answer for, gentlemen— your most obedient, 

Signed, W. HIIX. 



It was , agreed to by a majority, after the point had been maturely 
reasoned, that the subject was not in the extent of the Committee's in- 
sp'^c'ion, nni^ t^^at it ought to be recommended to those concerned to 
conduct themselves with discretion and tor the good of the country. 

The Committee then adjourned to the ^Cth inst. 



Wilmington, Nov. 26, 1774. 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 

Present: Francis Clayton, Robert Hogg; Jno. Ancrum; John 
Quince ; James Walker, and Archibald McLain. 

The Committee finding that several gentlemen intended to start hors- 
es, which they have had some time in keeping, for the Wilmington sub- 
scription purse, on Monday, the 28th inst. and the general Congress 
having particularly condemned horse racing, as an expensive di- 
version. The committee thought proper to send the following admo- 
nitory circular letter to the several gentlemen who had kept horses for 
the race, to wit : 

Wilmington, Nov. 26tk 1774. 

Sir : The Continental Congress, lately held at Philadelphia, represent- 
ing the several American colonies, from Nova Scotia to Georgia, associa- 
ted and agreed among other things, for themselves and their constituents, 
to "discountenance and discourage every species of extravagance and dis ■ 
sipation, especially all horse-racing, and all kinds of gaming, cock-fight- 
ing, exhibitions of shows and plays and other expensive diversions and 
entertainments ;" and we being a majority of the con^mitlee, chosen by 
the freeholders of Wilmington to observe the conduct of all persons 
touching the association of the said Congress, think it our indispensa- 
ble duty to inform you that in our opinion, the avowed intention of run- 
ning horses for the subscription purse near this town on the 28th inst. 
if carried into execution, will be subversive of the said association, and 
a breach of the resolves of the general Congress ; and that if the gen- 
tlemen who intended to enter horses for the said purse (of whom we 
understand you are one) persist in running the race, we shall be under 
the disagreeable necessity of bearing public testimony against a pro- 
ceeding which immediately strikes at the ground of the association and 
resolves, by disuniting the people. 

You must be sensible, Sir, that the Americans have not the most dis- 



taut prospect of being restored to their former rights or of succeeding in 
their attempts to defeat a venal and corrupt ministry and Parliament, 
but by an unanimous adheretice to the resolutions and advice of their 
represen f atives in the late general Congress; and as a friend to your coun- 
try, we have no doubt but you will readily relinquish an amusementi 
that however laudable in other respects, is certainly attended with con- 
siderable expense, and even destruction to many individuals ; and may 
very justly be condemned at a time when frugality should be one of our 
leading virtues. 

We shall only add that nothing will so effectually tend to convince 
the British Parliament that we are in earnest in our opposition to their 
measures, as a voluntary relinquishment of our favorite amusements. 
Those who will take the trouble of malting observations on mankind, 
must soon be convinced, that the people who abandon their pleasures for 
the public good, are not to be biased by any other consideration. Many 
will cheerfully give up part of their property to secure the remainder. 
He only is the determined patriot who willingly sacrifices his pleasures 
on the altar of freedom. "We are fcc. Which was signed by the com- 
mittee present. 

The committee then adjourned to the 10th of December. 



Wilmington, 10th December, 1774 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 

Mr. John Slingsby& Co. inform the Committee that they have im- 
ported in the brig Diana, CaptAnthven, master from Glasgow, since the 
first instant, a cargo of goods for their store in this town, amounting to 
£1916 7s2d 2-3 sterling, and another cargo for their store at Cross Creek, 
amounting to £1018 13^ ^d 34-sterling, and delivered the same with 
the invoices thereof into the hands of the committee, requesting that 
they may be sold agreeable to the association of the general Congress. 

Resolved, therefore, that the sale of the said goods, be on Wednesday, 
the 14lh inst., and that public notice thereof be given immediately. 

The Committee adjourned to the 14th inst. 



Wilmington, Wednesday 14th Dec. 1774. 
The cargoes of goods imported by John Slingsby&Co.and put into 
Jibe hands of the committee the 10th instant, were put up to public sale 



at the Court-house pursuant to notice when the importers becarae the 
last and highest bidders for the said goods, that is to say for the several 
goods imported for their store in Wilmmgton, the sum of nineteen hun- 
dred and twenty-three pounds, (£1923) ster. and lor the several goods im- 
ported for their store at Cross-creek the sum of one thousand and 
twenty pounds, (£1020) Uke money. 

Exclusive of the amount of the several goods in the two invoices as 
mentioned ui the proceedings of the 10th instant, there was gunpowder 
for the Wilmington store to the amount of £11 10s sterling, and for the 
Cross-creek store to the amount of £6 ISs Sterl. which as appears to 
the committee, never came to the hands of the said John Slingsby. <fc 
Co., not having been shipped on board the said brigantine. 

The committee met at 6 o'clock P. M.. Mr. Hereld Blackmore, in- 
formed that he had imported since the first instant, in the Sloop Mary 
and the Brig — ,five negro slaves, and craved advice how to proceed, as 
he had given orders for the purchasing and shipping said slaves, pre- 
vious to the resolutions of the provincial Congress. The committee 
desired that Mr. Blackmore, would not sell, or send them out of town, 
but be accountable for them at the next meeting — then adjourned to 
December the 17th, 1774. 



Wilmington, Saturday the 17th Dec. 1774. 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, John Ancrum, Robt Hogg, John Quince- 
Archibald M'Lain, James Walker and John Robeson. 

The committee finding upon enquiry that one of the slaves import- 
ed by Hereld Blackmore, was ordered after the publication of the resolves 
of the provincial convention of this province, and in contradiction there- 
to, and that he had at that time an opportunity to contradict the orders he 
had given for the other slaves, and he now confessing that he sent a copy 
of the provincial resolves to Granada : It is the opinion of the commit- 
tee that the said slaves be re-shipped. And the committee do resolve 
that all slaves, imported since the first day of this instant, or which 
may be imported, shall be re-shipped from this province. I'pon a sug- 
gestion to the committee that Mr. Aithur Mobson hath imported in liis 
schooner from the West Indies, some slaves which are now at his plan- 
tation near this town : It is ordered that the sense of this committee re- 
lative thereto be made known to Mr. Mobson, and that Mr. Maclain 



write to him for that purpose, which he hath done as follows, ':z wit i 

Wilmington, 17th Dec. 1774. 

Sir : The committee for the town, chosen to observe the conduct of 
all persons touching the association of the General Congress, have re- 
solved that all slaves imported into this river, since the first day of 
December, instant, shall be re-shipped to the place from whence they 
came as soon as possible, and being informed that you have, contrary to 
the express letter of the said association, imported slaves from the West 
Indies, which you have now at your plantation, it is expected that you 
will give a particular account of the number thereof, and take such 
steps as may satisfy the committee that you intend, on your peirt, to ad- 
here strictly to the regulations laid down by your representatives. 
I am, Sir, your obd't sec ^-iij 
Signed, ARCHIBALD M'LAIN* 

Mr. Mobson. 

Capt John Dean from Glasgow presented to the committee an in- 
voice of goods amounting to (£15) fifteen pound sterling, which he 
requested might be sold agreeable to the association and resolves of the 
General Congress, and the said go: .Is are accordingly ordered to be 
so' "I Monday the 19th inst. 

the complaints of divers persons that the proprietors of the 
1 this town have advanced the price of their Rum from 2^ 
'ency, per gallon : Mr. Wilkerson the acting partner was 
s. ' attended, and having alleged in his justification that 

Mo • at a higher price than formerly, that what he hath 

impo. ■=: purchased at an advanced price, and was of an 

inferioi hat the cargoes sent out to purchase it sold lower 

than usuu nion of this committee that they cannot inter- 

fere, unless . make it appear, that the proprietors of the 

distillery sell i ^ greater profits than they have usually 

done. 

The committee v. .le same resolutions with respect to the com- 

plaints against some . .xchants for raising the price of goods, particu- 
larly gun-powder, it appearing that that article is extremely scarce, and 
that a merchant in this town, hath offered 45 per pound for a quantity 
to supply his country stores, and could not procure it at lour shillings 
and sixpence. 

The committee adjourned till Monday the 19th inst. 



MoxoAYj 19th December, 1774. 
The committee met according to adjournment. 
Present : [No names inserted in the Manuscript.] 
The goods of Capt. John Dean, were exposed to sale, pursuant I* 
notice, and sold for the sum of £ sterling. 

The committee adjourned till further notice, 



Dec. 30th, 1774. 

The commitee met. 

Present : John Quince, James Walker, Archibald McLaine, Fr's Clay- 
ton, John Hogg, Wm. Hooper. 

Alexander Hostler, &. Co.j produced invoices of goods amounting to 
twelve hundred and sixty pounds, seven shillings and ninepence ster- 
ling, five hundred and seventy-seven pounds, twelve shillings one and 
a halfpence sterling, sixty-one pounds, nine shillings and ten and three 
quarters pence, and fifty-two pounds, nine shillings and ten and a half 
penc-=« sterling ; in the whole nineteen hundred and fifty-one poundSj 
nineteen shillings seven and three quarter pence, imported in the The- 
tis from Glasgow, which they delivered into the hands of the commit- 
tee and requested that the same might be sold pursuant to the resolves 
of the general Congress. 

Hogg and Campbell, produced invoice of one hundred and thirty 
tons of salt, imported in the North Star , Capt. Saunderson, from Ly-^ 
mington, amounting to two hundred and twenty-five pounds, thirteen 
shillings and five pence sterling, which he delivered and requested to be 

sold (kc. 

Abraham Hunter produced invoice of anchors, cables, canvass, rig- 
ging, cabin furniture and other articles, imported for a new vessel now 
on the stocks in this river, amounting to five hundred and sixty-one 
pounds, seventeen shillings three and a quarter pence sterling, deliver- 
ed the same, and requested that they be sold &c. 

Hanna, M'Clintock, & Co., produced invoices of goods imported in 
the Thetis from Glasgow, amounting to two thousand six hundred and 
seventy one pounds, fourteen shillings eleven and a half pence sterling, 
delivered the same to the committee, and requested to have them sold 
&c. 

John Ciuden & Co. produced invoice of two bales of Osnaburgs, 
imported in the Thetis from Glasgow amoimting to fifty-t\yo pounds 



10 

fiftecm shillings sterlings which they delivered to the committee, and're- 
quested to have them sold (fcc. 

Resolved, That all the above mentioned goods be sold to-morrow,, 
the 31st instant. 

The committee adjourned till to-morrow. 



Saturday, Dee. 31st. 1774. 

Present : The last mentioned members. 

The goods of Alexander Hostler, &. Co.; Hogg and Campbell, 
Abraham Hunter, Hanna, M'Clintock, & Co., and John Cruden <fc Co. 
were exposed to sale according to notice, and sold as follows : 

£ s d 
130 tons of salt, imported by Hogg & Campbell, at £225 13 5. 

Anchors, canvass, cables, &.c. by Abraham Hunter, 561 

Sundry goods in 4 invoices by Alex. Hostler, &- Co. 1952 8 8 

2 bales of Osnaburgs, by J, Cruden, & Co. 53 

Sundry goods by H. M'Clintock, & Co. 2672 0. 

Invoices of goods imported by Thomas Orr, amounting to seven hun- 
dred and sixty-three pounds, twelve shillings and two pence, and 
twenty-two pounds, nineteen shillings and seven pence sterling, were 
produced and the said goods delivered, and requesting that they be 
sold, &c. 
The committee adjourned to the 3d of January next. 



Januarys, 1775. 

The committee met according to adjournment, when Mr. Orr's 
goods, mentioned in two invoices, were sold for seven hundred and 
eighty-seven pounds sterling. 

Adjourned to the 4th inst. 



Wednesday, January 4^ 1776. 

The Committee met at the Court-House. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Archibald M'Laine, John Ancrum, Wil- 
liam Hooper and John Robeson. 

At the same time, the freeholders of New-Hanover county assembled, 
to choose a committee for the county to join and co-operate with the 
committee of the town ; which the members present agreed to ; then 
Jhe freeholders present, having Cornelius Harnett into the chair, unanii 



mouslyciiosc George Moore, John Ashe, Samuel Ashe, James Moore, 
Frederick Jones, Alex. Lillington, Sampson Moseley, Samuel Swann, 
George Merrick, esquires, and Messrs. John Hollingsworth, Samuel 
Collier, Samuel Marshal, William Jones, Thomas Bloodworth, James 
Wright, Wm. Jones, John Larkins, Joel Parish, John Devane, Timo- 
thy Bloodworth, Thomas Devane, John Marshall, John Colvin, Bishop 
and Dudley, and William Robeson, esqrs. were unanimously chosen a 
committee to join the committee of Wilmington. 

The freeholders at the same time nominated John Ashe, and Wil- 
liam Hooper esq. as delegates for the said county, to attend at New- 
bern, with the delegates from the other counties and towns in order to 
choose representatives to attend the ensuing Congress at Philadelphia. 

Then the committee resolved to have monthly stated meetings, and 
that the first monthly meeting be in Wilmington, on the 20th day of 
January, instant, and be continued the 20th day of every succeeding 
month. 

The committee adjourned till to-morrow. 

Thursday, January 5th, 1775. 

The Committee met according to adjournment, and chose Cornelius 
Harnett Esq. Chairman, and Mr. Francis Clayton deputy ChairmaB. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Sampson Mosely, John Ashe, John Quince, George Moore, William 
Jones, L. C, William Jones, W. T. John Ancrum, Wm. Robeson, F. 
Jones, Samuel Swann, Thos. Devane, John Marshall, Samuel Ashe, 
Wm. Hooper, Archibald M'Laine, Robt. Hogg, 

Resolved, That the 'following notice be sent'to the Merchants of 
Wilmington, by Mr Swann, and Mr. Robeson, to wit : 

To the Merchants of the town of Wilmington. Masters of vessels 
and traders : The committees of the county of New-Hanover, and of 
the town of Wilmington, united and met for the important purpose of 
carrying into execution the resolves of the Continental Congress, ear- 
nestly request of you, as well wishers to the common cause of Ameri- 
ca, in which we are all embarked, to signily to them, by the bearers of 
this, if you have any gunpowder on hand, and what quantity, that this 
committee, may in consequence of that information, take the most pru- 
dent steps, to guard against the melancholy effects, which may resuU 



n 

from this part of the Province, being left in a state totally deficient from 
the want of ammunition. It is likewise requested that you would cease 
to make further sales thereof, until informed by the committee. 

Signed, CORNELIUS HARNETT, Chairman. 

Hr. Owen Kenan, as holder of two notes of hand, of one hundred 
and fifty pounds each, from Jesse Barfield, to Lechansius Dekeyser, and 
from the said Dekeyser, to the said Barfield, and of two other notes of 
hand, for one hundred pounds, Virginia currency, each, from Alexan- 
der Outlaw, William Robeson and Wm. Jones, to John Lawson, and 
from the said Lawson and John Ashe, to Alexander Outlaw, for two 
races to be run between the several parties, was summoned to ap- 
pear, and compelled to deliver up the said notes, and the agreements 
made for running the said races, and the committee unanimously re- 
solved to indemnify the said Owen Kenan for all damages he may 
hereafter sustain by the delivery of the said notes and agreement. 

Mr. Swann, and Mr. Robeson, returned an account of the gunpow- 
der, in Wilmington, 14341bs. in the hands of the several merchants ap- 
plied to. 

Mr. Thomas Craike, wasrequpsted by the committee, to act as Secre- 
tary, which he readily agreed to. 

The committee sent the papers of the following tenor, to the persons 
within named by Mr. Swann, and Mr. Robeson. 

Mr. John Burgwin, John Robeson, Mr. Tier, Ancrum, Foster and 
Brice, Thomas Orr, George and Thomas Hooper, Hogg and Campbell, 
George IJoherty, and Charles Jecokes. 

The King's proclamation prohibiting the further exportation of gun- 
powder from Great Britain, renders it highly necessary, that some ex- 
pedient should be adopted to prevent the melancholy consequences 
which to a province in respect to its inhabitants, circumstanced as this 
5s, may in future arise from a total want of that article. We, therefore 
gentlemen, assure ourselves, that you, animated with the same liberal 
sentiments that w&feel, will contribute what at present falls to your par- 
ticular department for the promotion of the public good. 



Note by the Publtsher — The following was appended in a small slip, pinned on to 
the manuscript page, and probably alluded to the quantity of powder iu the town of Wil- 
mingfton, at the periods designated: 

January 4, 1775, lOOlbs. Gunpowder 

DfCPmbPrH, 1774, r>01bR. Gunpowder 



13 

The quantity of Gunpowder which is at present in the town is very 
inconsiderable, and it is absolutely necessary, that what there is should 
be reserved for any future emergencies, that we may be prepared for 
every the worst contingencies. 

We therefore, gentlemen, entreat you by the ties of honor and virtue, 
and love for your country, as you prize the regard of your fellow-citi- 
zens, as you wish to avoid the censure of this committee, and those 
whom they represent, that you would not within thirty days from this 
time, remove out of this town, or make sale of any of the gunpowder 
wliich you have reported to this coujmittee. as the stock you have upon 
hand before the expiration of which time, this committee will endeav- 
or to collect by subscription, and they doubt not of success, a sum suf- 
ficient to purchase and pay you for the whole of it at the reasonable 
price of three shillings per pound, which some of your well disposed 
brethren have consented to take. And as it is intended, to be made 
use of as much for your security as of the rest of the inhabitants of 
this part of the province, we address you with a certainty of suc- 
ceeding in this application, which should it appear to you to carry with 
with it any thing uncommon, will find an ample vindication in the 
preseut critical circumstances of this province. 

Signed, CORNELIUS HARNETT, Chairman. 

Mr. Swann and Mr. Robeson, made report to the committee, that 
all the persons applied to had complied to the request of the committee, 
excepting Mr. Burgwin, whose answers appeared to be evasive, as he 
neither specified the quantity of powder he could spare nor absolutely 
fixed the price he would take for it. Therefore, 

Resolved, unanimously, that Mr. Hurgwin's answer is unsatisfactory, 
and deserves the censure of this committee, and that he have notice 
thereof. 

The committee then adjourned until 9 o'clock the next day. 



Friday, January 6th, 9 o'clock. 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Wm. Hooper, SamL Ashe, George Merrick, James Moore, Bishop 
Dudley-; Alexander Lillington, Thos. Devane, Samuel Marshall, Wm. 



14 

•tFoneSj L. C. Wm. Jones, W. T., Frederick Jones, James Walker, Ar- 
'chibatd M'Laine, Wm. Robeson, Saml. Swann, John Robeson. 

Mr. Biirgwin's letter to the Chairman, was produced and read, and dr- 
■dered to be copied as follows : 

Friday Morning, 
Dear Sir : By what I hear passed in the Committee last evening, 
J imagine some misapprehension has taken place, as surely it cannot be 
supposed, I intended any insult to a set of Gentlemen, for whom indi- 
vidually, I have a high respect. 

I was quite unacquainted with the quantity of powder we had on 
hand, and 1 told the gentlemen, who came to me, that my powder cost 
seven shillings per hundred more than any in town, being made by a 
particular sample I had sent home for thepurpose, and I thought we ought 
to have two shillings a pound more for it ; however we should not disa- 
gree about trifles — and that I would give orders, none of it should be sold, 
but reserved as requested. 

On the second application of Mr. Swann and Mr. Robeson, I think 
I told them with respect to two half barrels of Mrs. W's., as it was her 
property, should she send for it, I must deliver it to her order — but 
that I had no doubt of her acceptance of the price, and that I should 
write to her by the first opportunity. 

Thus far, 1 have repeated if not the very words, the substance of 
what passed on this subject, and should be extremely sorry to act in 
any respect contrary to the true interest of my country, or give ofience 
4o any individual in it. Had I reflected a moment, I should have re- 
ferred the Gentlemen, to Mr. Graham, who is empowered to transact 
Mrs. Waddel's business, and could have answered for her at once — 
-and to whom I now beg it to be referred. 

Dear sir, your most obd't servant. 
Signed, JOHN BURG WIN. 

The committee on hearing the above letter read, ordered the foUow- 
-ing answer to be sent him by the Chairman. 

Sir: Your letter to me, respecting the messages sent to you about 
"your gunpowder, has been read to the committee, and they have desir- 
•ed me to acquaint you, that they are satisfied with it. 
I am sir, Yours &c. 
Signed CORNELIUS HARNETT. 



15 



The committee requested of Mr. Ancrum and Mr. Quince, that they: 
would inspect the Custom-House books at Brunswick, and report ac- 
cordingly, which they agreed to do on Monday next. 

The committee then adjourned until the 20th inst. 



Friday, January 20th. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Samuel Swann, Timothy Bloodworth, John Q,uince, John Ancrum,, 
Archibald M'Laine, Samuel Ashe, Wm. Jones, h. C. James Walker, Wm. 
Hooper. 

Mr. Quince, and Mr. Ancrum, reported to the committee, their re- 
turn of the vessels entered at the Custom-House since the 5th day of 
November 1774, to the 4th January 1775, which was ordered to be 
filed. 

James Grant, was appointed messenger to the committee, who agreed 
to act in that capacity. 

The committee then adjourned until 10 o'clock the next day. 



10 o'clock, Saturday, Jan. 21st, 1775". 

The Gomraittee met according to adjournment. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton Deputy 
Chairman. 

Samuel Ashe, Timothy Bloodworth, Wm. Jones, L. C. Sampson 
Mosely, John Quince, John Robeson, John Ancrum, John Ashe, Joel 
Parish,, Wm. Hooper, Samuel Swann, 

Messrs. George and Thomas Hooper, H. Blackmore, Arthur Mob- 
son and Peter Mallett, reported sundry negroes, imported by them since 
the 1st. day of December last. 

Resolved, That notices be sent to Messrs. George and Thomas Hoop- 
er, Hinall Blackmore, Arthur Mobson, and Peter Mallett,, to re-ship, 
by the first opportunity, the sundry negroes they have imported since 
the 1st day of December last. It being the opinion of this Committee 
that such importations are contrary to the resolves of the Continental 
Congress, and a particular resolve of this committee. 

Resolved, that it is the opinion of this committee, a meeting of the 
merchants and traders of the town is necessary, in order to agree about 
the rates of goods, they have for sale, to prevent, as far as possible, any 



l« 



advantage beini,^ taken from the present situation of this province, witfi; 
America in General, rating goods higher than they were formerly sold at. 
The committee then adjourned until 3 o'clock. 



Friday Morning. 

The committee met according to adjournmentj and entered into the' 
following resolves. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton Deputy 
Chairman. 

William Hooper, John Ancrum, Samuel Ashe, John Quince, John 
Robeson, James Walker, Samuel Svvann, Samuel Marshall, Roberl 
Hogg, Timothy Bloodworth, Wm. Jones, L. C. 

Resolved, That any quantity of Salt, not exceeding 5 bushels, be 
sold, at not more than three shillings and sixpence, any other quantity 
not higher than three shillmgs and fourpenee, per bushel. 

Resolved, That Dry Goods for ready pay, be sold not higher than 
two shillings and 2d, ibr one on the sterling cost, excepting small ai ti- 
des, that are perishable, and not exceeding seven shillings and six-' 
pence profit, to be sold as usual, and all dry goods sold on credit at the 
same rates they have been sold at for 12 months past. 

Resolved, That the permission of Billiard Tables, in this town, is 
repugnant to the resolves of the General Congress, and that the pro- 
prietors of them have notice thereof. They were accordingly served 
with such notice, and appeared at the committee, and declared their ac- 
quiescence in the resolves. 

The committee then adjourned until the 28th January next. 



Saturday, January 28th. 1775, 

At an occasional meeting of the committee : 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman, 

John Ancrum, James Walker, Robert Hogg, John Robeson. 

Resolved, That Balls and dancing at Public Houses, are contrary to 
the resolves of the General Congress. It is the opinion of this com- 
mittee, that every tavern-keeper in this town, have notice given them 
not to suffer any Balls, or public Dancing at their houses, as they wish 
to avoid the censure of the people. 

Mr. W. Campbell, and Mr. John M'Donnel, reported sundry dry- 
goods, imported by them in the Brigantine Carolina Packet Malcolm 



%1 

M'Neil, Comtnander, and delivered up their invoices to the committer, 
to have tlie said goods disposed of agreeable to the resolves of the Gen- 
eral Congress. 

Ordered, That the said Goods be advertised to be sold at public ven- 
due, at 11 o'lock, on Monday, the 30th inst. 

Ordered, That application be made to Capt. Bethune, of the Schooner 
. J from St. Augustine, to know whether the said schoon- 
er, is owned either in St. Augustine, or Georgia, and Mr. Clayton is 
requested by the committee, to make such enquiry, and report to tha 
committee, on their next meeting. 

The committee then adjourned to the meeting of course. 



Monday, January 30th. 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee, 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, t'rancis Clayton, Dfeputy 
Chairman. 

Robt. Hogg, James Walker, Archibald M'Laine, John Quince. 

Mr. Adam Boyd, having applied for encouragement to his news-pa- 
per (some time ago laid aside,) it was resolved, that the committee so far 
as their influence extended would support him on the following terms. 

That he Mr. Boyd, should weekly continue a newspaper denomina- 
ted the Cape Fear Mercury, of 21 inches wide, 17 inches long, 3 col- 
umns on a page, and of the small pica or long primer letter, and in re- 
turn receive his payments at the following periods, viz : ten shillings 
at the delivery of the first number, ten shillings at the expiration of a 
year, and to be paid ten shillings at the end of every succeeding six 
months thereafter. 

The committee then adjourned to the meeting of course. 



Thursday February 2nd. 1775. 
The Committee met as by adjournment. 

Present: Archibald M'Laine, Wm. Hooper, Jas. Walker, John Ro- 
beson, John duince, Robt Hogg, J. Ancrum. 

William Campbell's, goods were set up at vendue, 

and sold for £760 00 

Amount of his invoice, 754 11 

,^005» 1'9 1 



16 



John Slingsby's goods sold for sterling, £118 05 0' 

Amount of his invoice, £117 18 3- 



£000 06 9 
To be received from W. C. and J. S. £006 05 10 



Friday, February 3rd, 1775. 
At an occasional meeting, 

Present : Archibald M'Laine, James Walker, John duince, John Ro- 
beson, John Ancrum. 
John M'Donnel's goods, were sold at vendue, 
For sterling, £725 13 06 

To Wm. Purviance. 
Amount of his invoice, £717 13 04 



To be received ot Wm. R £008 00 02 

William Campbell, having delivered his invoice to the committee, at 

Ibis meeting, his salt was put at public vendue, and sold 

For £225 10 00 

Amount of his invoice, £218 08 04 



To be paid by Wm. C Sher. £003 01 08 



Monday, February 13th., 1775. 

At an occasional meeting, 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Glayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Archibald M'Lain, Robt. Hogg, John Quince, Alexander Lillington, 
James Walker. 

Information was made against Jona. Dunbibin, for taking four shil- 
lings per bushel, for salt, contrary to this resolves of this committee, he 
being sent for, waited on the committee, confessed it was a mistake, an^ 
promised to return the money so exacted, which the committee, were' 
satisfied with. 

The committee then adjourned to the next occasional meeting. 

Monday, February 20th., 1775. 
The committee met according to adjournment on the 13th of Feb, 
last. 
Present ; Francis Clayton Deputy Chairman. 



Robt. Hogg, James Walker, John ABcrum, Wm. Hooper, Saanuel 
Marshall, Wm. Jones, L. C. John Devane, Timothy Bloodworth, Thos. 
Slood worth. 

It was proposed by Mr. "Wra. Hooper, that as there was not a ma- 
jority of the joint committee, that a message be sent to each member to 
meet on Monday the 6th of March next, which was agreed to, and the 
following message, ordered to be prmted, and sent to each member. 

Sir : As a member of the Committee appointed for the purpose of 
carrying into execution within the County of New Hanover, the Re- 
solves of the General Continental Congress, you are requested to 
meet at the House of Lechans Dekeysers, on Monday the 6th day of 
March next, then and there to consult of business of the utmost conse- 
-quence to the patriotic support of the cause of British America. 
By order of the Committee, 

Signed THOS. CRAIKE,Sec; 

Ordered, That the absentees of the committee be mulcted agreeable 
to the resolve of this committee. 

Mr. Clayton, as Deputy Chairman, was requested by the committee, 
to write to Mr. James Kenan, Chairman of the Duplin Conunittee, 
which he did as follows. 

Monday i F^hruary 20th., 1775. 
Sir : At a meeting of the Joint committees for the town of Wil- 
mington and county of New-Hanover, on this day, it was among other 
matters, proposed and agreed to. That for the better communica- 
tion of intelligence and production of a similarity of conduct in your 
and our counties ; we would send two members from our Joint Com- 
mittees, on any day you should appoint, after the 6th of March, next. 
giving us twenty days notice thereof — and as on that day, there would 
be several matters of much concern to American welfare, agitated, will 
be happy to see two of your members at our meeting. 

Sir, &,c. 
Signed, F. CLAYTON, 



Tuesday, February 21st. 1775. 
At an occasional meeting of the committee, 
Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton Deput 



(Chairman. 



% 



20 

Robt. Hoggj John Ancrum, Archibald M'Laine James Walker. 

Mr. Crowther, presented to the committee, two invoices of European 
goods, imported since the 1st. day of December last, to be disposee of 
agreeable to the resolves of the General Congress, which were ordered 
to be sold at vendue, as directed by the resolves. 

Sales of the 1st invoice, £204 13 1^ 

Sales of the 2nd invoice^ £044 05 11 



£199 11 2^ 

Amount of the 1st invoice, £202 08 01^ 

Amount of the 2nd invoice £044 00 11 

£246 09 0^ 

£002 10 00 
Difference on 20 bushels o! potatoes that were sold, £000 10 00 

£002 11 00 



Wednesday, March I'st. 1775. 

At an occasional meetmg of the committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Robt. Hogg, John Ancrum, James Walker, John Robeson. 

The committee being informed of a Public Ball, to be given by sun- 
dry persons, under the denomination of the gentlemen of Wilmington, 
at the liouse of Mrs. Austin, this evening, and as all public Balls and 
dances, are contrary to the resolves of the General Continental Con- 
gress, and a particular resolve of this committee : 

Ordered, That the following letter be sent to Mrs. Austin, to forewarn 
her from sufferins: such Public Ball and dancine at her house. 



*& 



Madam : The committee appointed to see the resolves of the Conti- 
nental Congress put in execution, in this town, acquaint you, that the 
Ball intended to be given at your house, this evening, is contrary to the 
said resolves ; we therefore warn you to decline it, and acquaint the 
parties concerned, that your house cannot be at their service, consistent 
with the good of your country. 

By order of the committee, 

Signed, THOS. CRAIKE. 



Monday, March Cth. 1775. 

■The committee met according to adjournment. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

Archibald M'Lain, Alex. Lillington, James Moore, Johrx Robeson, 
Sampson Mosely, Joel Parish, Timothy Blood worth, Thos. Bloodworth^ 
James Wright, John Hollingsworth, Samuel Marshall, F. Jones, John 
Ancrum, James Walker, Wm.-Hooper, Samuel Collier. 

The following association was agreed on by the committee, and an- 
nexed to the resolves of the General Congress, to be handed to every 
person in this county and recommended to the committees of the adja- 
cent c ounties, that those who acceded to the said resolves, may sub 
scribe their names thereto. 

We the subscribers, in testimony of our sincere approbation of the 
proceedings of the late Continental Congress, to this annexed, have 
hereunto set our hands, and we do most solemnly engage by the most 
sacred ties of honor, virtue and love of our coantry, that we will our- 
selves strictly observe every part of the association recommended by 
the Continental Congress, as the most probable means to bring about 
a reconciliation between Great Britian and her colonies and we will use 
every method in our power to endeavor to influence others to the ob- 
servation of it by persuasion, and such other methods as shall be con. 
sistent with the peace and good order, and the laws of this Province, 
and we do hereby intend to express our utter detestation of all such as 
shall endeavor to defeat the purposes of the said Congress, and will 
concur to hold forth such characters to public contempt. 

William Wilkinson, reported sundry dry goods imported in the 

Schooner , Yelverton Fowkes, master, from Charles 

Town, directed to his care by Joseph Robeson, of deep river, to have 
their opinion whether the said goods could be landed agreeable to the 
general resolves. 

The committee after examining Mr. Wilkinson and Capt. Fowkes 
and such papers as they could produce : 

Resolved, That the said goods cannot be disposed of by the said 
Robeson, or his Factor, till further proof of their having been imported 
or disposed of agreeable to the general resolves, and that William Wil- 
kinson, be allowed six weeks from this time, to procure from the com- 
mittee of Charles Town, such certificates as shall be satisfactory to this 



-committee ; and the said Wm. Wilkinson, is to store the goods, and deli^ 
ver the key to Mr. James Walker, one of thig committee. 
The committee then adjourned till 3 o'clock this afternoon. 

3 o'clock, the committee met according to adjournment. 
Present ; Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

John Robeson, Samuel Swann, A. Lillington, George Moore, Samp- 
son Mosely, Wm. Jones, L. C. John Colvin,, Samuel Marshall, Wm. 
Jones, W. T. Thos. Bloodworth, Archibald M'Laine, John Ancrum, 
James Walker, James Wright, Timothy Bloodworth, Samuel Collier, 
John Hollingsworth, Joel Parish, John Devane, George Merrick, 
Wm. Hooper, James Moore, Frederick Jones, 

Mr. James Kenan, Chairman of the Duplin committee, pursuant to 
a letter from this committee at their last meeting attended. 

Resolved, That all the members of the committee now present go in 
a body and wait on all Housekeepers in Town, with the Association 
before mentioned, and request their signing it, or declare their reasons 
for refusing, that such Enemies to their Country may be set forth to 
public view and treated with the contempt they merit. 

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, that all dances pri- 
vate as well as public, are contrary to the spirit of the 8th Article in the 
Association of the Continental Congress, and that as such they ought to 
be discouraged, and that all persons concerned in any dances for the 
future should be properly stigmatized. 

Mr. Harnett desired the opinion of the Committee respecting a Negro 
fellow he bought in Rhode Island (a Native of that place,) in the Month 
of October last, whom he designed to have brought with him to this 
Province, but the said Negro ran away at the time of his sailing from 
Rhode Island. 

The question was put whether Mr. Harnett may import the said Ne- 
gro from Rhode Island. 

Resolved, Unanimously, That Mr, Harnett may import the said Ne- 
gro from Rhode Island, and it is the opinion of this Committee that 
under the above circumstances, such importation will not be any in- 
fringement of the Article of the Resolves of the General Congress. 
^ Ordered, that Mr. Grant, Messenger to this Committee, be paid for 



iiis itteildance on the committee, 10 days, (including to-morrow) at the 
tates of 8s. per day. 

The Committee then adjoiirned till 9 o'clock to-morrow morning. 



Tuesday, 7th March, 1775. 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 
Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman. 

John Ancrum, Geo. Moore, Wm, Hooper, Samuel Sivann, James 
Moore, Sampson Moseley, "Wm. Jones, W. T. Thos. Bloodworth, 
Alexander Lillington, F. Jones, Geo. Merrick, J. Robeson, Jno. Quince^ 
Jno. Devane, Jno. Colvin, Timothy Bloodworth, Wm. Jones, L. C. 
Joel Parish, Jno. HoUingsworth, Jas. Wright, Archibald M'Laine. 

Resolved, That three members of this committee attend the meeting 
of the committee at Duplin, on the 18th inst. Mr. Samuel Ashe, Mr. 
Sampson Moseley, and Mr. Timothy Bloodworth, were accordingly 
nominated to attend the said Committee. 

The Committee sent for Mr. John McDonnell, an importer and purcha- 
ser of sundry dry goods, as appears by the Journal of this committee, the 
3d February last, to demand the sum of £8 Os. 2d. Sterling Money, 
"Which he became liable for to the committee. The said Jno. McDon- 
nell having made it appear to the satisfaction of the committee, that the 
goods he purchased were damaged in such a manner as not to be 
worth the first cost and charges : It is the opinion of this committee 
that the aforesaid sale is void, and that the said Jno. McDonnell be ex- 
cused from paying the above sum. 

Doctor Thomas Cobham, Messrs. Jno. McDonnel, Jno. Walker, jr., 
John Slingsby, Thomas Orr, Jno. Cruden, Wm. Mactier, and Wm. Mc- 
Leod, merchants, Wm. Whitfield, planter, and Kenneth McKenzie, and 
Dougal McNight, Tailors, all of the Town of Wilmington, appeared 
before the committee, and having refused or declined, under various 
pretences, to sign the association of the Continental Congress ; 

Resolved and agreed. That we will have no trade, commerce, deal- 
ings, or intercourse whatsoever with the above mentioned persons or 
any others connected with them, or with any other person or persons 
who shall hereafter violate the said association, or refuse to subscribe 
hereto ; but will hold them as unworthy of the rights of freemen and 



34 

QS inimical to the liberties of their country, and we recommend it to th3' 
people of this colony in particular, and to the Americans in general, tat 
pursue the same conduct. 

Resolved, That a copy of the above Resolve be given to Adam Boyd,- 
to print in handbills^ and distributed through this province. 

The committee being informed that a vessel arrived in the River 
from Glasgow, with Bale Goods, desired the Chairman to write the fol- 
lowing Letter to R'd Quince, Esq., Chairman of the Brunswick Com- 
mittee : 

Sir : From the Captain of a vessel from Hispaniola, just come to 
town, we learn that a Snow has arrived from Glasgow, laden with Bale 
Goods, Bricks, Wines, <fec.; you are sensible. Sir, that these Goods, 
agreeable to the Articles of Association, ought to be returned ; and take 
this very early opportunity of putting you in mind that she is a subject 
of your attention, having committed a breach of said Association with- 
in your limits. 

The names of the Captain and Vessel are not known, but supposed 
to be the Snow Relief, Dougal McGregor Master. You will please 
communicate the proceedure of your committee in this affair, lam, &c. 
Signed, CORNELIUS HARNET. 

The Committee then adjourned till afternoon. 

Tuesday, 4 o'clock. 

The Committee met according to adjournment. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton Deputy 
Chairman. 

Jno. duince, Jno. Devane, Thos. Blood worth, Timothy Bloodworth, 
Wm. Jones, W. T. Wm. Hooper, Jno. Ancrum, James Moore, F. 
Jones, Arch. McLaine, Wm. Jones, L. C. 

Resolved, Unanimously, That as the measures which this Committee 
musi be under an absolute necessity to adopt, in case any persons 
should mark themselves as objects of distinction, in opposition the gen-__ 
eral American cause, must be greatly detrimental in their present ope- 
ration and future consequence to them ; We, therefore, in order to give 
full oppportunity to those who have not yet subscribed their names as a 
testimony of their concurrence in the continental Association have 
thought lit to delay till Monday next, carrying into execution those 
signal marks of contempt wiiich the Continental Congress have 



^hoaght lit to consiga those who are so far lost te pubUc virtue, as to op- 
pose the measures which that body proposed as a cement of allegiance 
to our sovereign, and as having a tendency to promote a Constitutional 
attachment to our Mother Country. 

Resolved, unanimously, Also, that if any person who, upon applica- 
tion having been made to him, to sign the Association, has hitherto re- 
fused, if he shall make known that he has altered his Resolution, and 
shall be desirous to set his name to the said Association, he will find it 
in the hands ot the Chairman, deputy Chairman or Secretary of this; 
Committee, till Monday next, before or at which time he may apply and 
save the dangerous consequence that may ensue from a longer neglect. 

Account of Money received by the Secretary for the Committee, to 
be disposed of agreeable to the Re^'olves. 

From Arch. Maclaine, Corn'l Harnett, Al. Lillington, ] 
Sam'l Swan, Samp. Mosely, Fred'k Jones, G. Moore, ( £4 gg q^ 
Wm. Jones, Joel Parish, Jno. Devane, Jno. Robeson, } 
at 8s. each, for not attending the committe as sum'd. J 
From Mr. Crowther, for sale of goods, on the 21st 
Feb'y, 1775 . . - . 

do Alexander Hostler, for do. 31st Dec. 1774 

do John Slinffsby for do. at sundry times 

do Wm. McTier, for do. 31st Dec. 1774 

do John Cruden, for do. 31st Dec. 1774 

do Thos. Orr, for do. 31st Dec. 1774 

do J. McDonnel, a gift to the Bostonians 

£32 10 

Account of Moniey paid by order of the committee. 

To James Grant, Messenger to the committee for his I p± Qs Od 

attendance, 10 days including to-day at 8s. per day. \ ^ 

To < >wen Kenan for Dickson in full for the balance ^ 

due him by the committee appomted to receive dona- ! 5 n 

tions tor the Bostonians, for carrying expresses to the } 

Northern counties. j 

J&9 

The committee adjourned to the next occasional meeting. 

At a meeting of the Freeholders of Wilmington this day, Wm. Pur^ 
\'iance, Esq., Messrs. R'd Player, James Blyth, And' wRonaldson,Wm, 
Ewins and Henry Young, were unanimously chosen an addition to 
ithe Wilmington committee, 

4 



4 


8 9 


3 





14 10 


2 







8 8 




15 


3 






MoNBAY, 13th M&rcli, 1^70'. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : Corn'l Harnett, Chairman, Fran's Clayton, deputy Chair- 
man, Arch'd Maclaine, Rob. Hogg, Jno. Q,uince, Wm. Purviance, Jas. 
Walker, R'd Player, James Blyth, Wm. Ewins, And'wRonaldson, Jno. 
Ancrum and Jno. Ashe. 

Since the Resolve passed the 6th of this inst. to make public, the 
names of the persons who refused to sign the Continental Association, 
the underwritten persons who had refused, have subscribed their names 
within the time limited. 

John Cruden, Thos. Orr, Wm. Mcleod, John Slingsby, Wm. Whit- 
field, Thos. Cobham, John Walker, jr., and McMactier. 

Rec'd this day from Mr. Harnett his subscription to the committee, 
for purchasing gunpowder, £25. 



At a general meeting of the Committee. 

Monday, March 20th, 1775. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman. 

James Moore, Samuel Ashe, Samuel Swann, Robt. Hogg, James 
Walker, Wm. Hooper, Alex. Ronaldson, Jno. Hollingsworth, Frederick 
Jones, Jno. Ancrum, Samuel Marshall, Arch. McLaine. 

Resolved, That the Importers of negroes since the 1st of December 
last, be called upon at the next General meeting of this Committee on 
the 20th of April next, to produce Bills of Loading, or other sufficient 
proof to the committee, that they have reshipped the said negroes agreea- 
ble to the resolves of the general Congress as directed by this committee. 

Paid for paper, - - - 2s. 8d. 

The Committee then adjourned to the next occasional meeting. 



TtfESDAY, March, 24th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present : Robert Hogg, James Walker, Jno, Robeson, Wm. Ewins, 
Jno. Ancrum, Wm. Purviance, Timothy Bloodworth, A. Ronaldson, 
James Blyth, Thos. Devan^. 

Messrs. George and Thos. Hooper, reported Sundry dry goods of the 
Psggy, Graaam, Commander, from Leith, shipped to their address 
which they desired the committee to take into consideration and direct 
what should be done with the dry goods. 



Ordered, That the said Goods be not landed, but sent back to Great 
Britain, as directed by the 10th Article of the General Association, and 
Mr. John Robeson is desired (as a member of this committee) to go on 
board the said vessel, and take an account of the goods on board, with 
their marks and numbers, and on her being ready to sail for Great 
Britain to examine the said goods with his account before taken. 

Captain Oidfield reported two negroes shipped to his address of the 
Schooner Bedford, Capt. Benney, which were ordered to be re-shipped, 
and was complied with by Capt. Oidfield. 



Wednesday, April 4th. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : Arch'd Maclaine, Jno. Robeson, Wm. Purviance, Tim'y 
Bloodworth, James Walker, Alex. Ronaldson, Wm. Ewins, Jno. An- 
crum. 

Mr. Alexander Hostler applied to the committee to have their advice 
concerning a ship called the Clemantine, that was coming to his address 
from London, commanded by Dick Wier, which is lost on the middle 
ground near the Bar of the River. At the same time, Mr. Hostler deliver- 
ed to the committee, an Invoice of sundry stationary goods shipped on 
board the said vessel, which he requested the committee to take also 
into consideration and direct him what may be done with the said ship, 
stores and materials and stationary goods. 

Ordered, That it is the opinion of this committee that the vessel, 
with her stores and materials may be legally sold without any breach 
being made in the General Association, but as the stationary goods are 
landed at Brunswick, this committee think they don't come under their 
direction. 



Thursday, April 20th, 1775. 

The Committee met agreeable to adjournment. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman. 

Robert Hogg, James Walker, Alex. Lillington, Timothy Bloodworth, 
Andrew Ronaldson, John Colvin. Francis Clayton, James Blyth, Sam. 
Marshall, Jno. Robinson, Wm. Purviance, Sampson Moseley, George 
Moore, Jno. Ancrum, Wm. Evans, Frederick Jones. 

Mr. Wm. Wilkinson, appeared and produced a certificate for the pro- 
per landing of a parcel of goods consigned him from Charlestown, in, 



the Schooneir Yel verton Fawkes, master, which being read , 

was deemed satisfactory by the Committee. 

Application was then made by Mr. Cruden, in behalf of a Mr. Elliott, 
setting forth that he had purchased the real and personal estate of Marma- 
duke Jones, Esq. both of the province, and praying to have leave to 
import some of his house servants (negroes) no\r in Jamaica; the arti- 
cles iij the above association respecting Ifie importation ol slaves being 
read, and the subject fully debated, it was determined that said servants 
could not be imported. 

The Committee then adjourned to May 20th. 



Saturday, May ^Oth, 1T75. 

The committee met according to adjournment 

Present : Cornelius Harnett^ Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman, George Moore, John Ashe, Sam'l Marshall, John Devane, 
John Colvin, Sampson Moseley, James Wright, Robert Hogg, John 
Hollingsworth, James Blythe, And'w Ronaldson, John Robeson, Thos. 
Bloodworth, Samuel Ashe, Fred'k Jones, Arcliibald Maclaine, James 
Moore, Willian Robeson, William Ewins, William Jones, Sam'l Col- 
lier, Timothy Bloodworth, Alexander Lillington, James Walker, Jno. 
Ancrum, Jno. Q,uince. 

Ordered, That this committee meet at 11 o'clock, in the forenoon, on 
the 20th day of every month, otherwise to be subject to the fine agreed 
to be paid by absentees. 

Resolved, That the committees of the respective counties in this 
Pistrict be invited to meet in Wilmington on the 20th of June next, in 
order to deliberate on several matters of importance that will be laid 
before them, respecting the general cause of America. 

Ordered, That the Resolve entered on the journals of this commit- 
tee on the last meeting, respecting the application to the committee foir 
liberty to Mr. Elliott to import his house servants, be rescinded. 

Resolved, A paper containing the reasons of the Magistrates of Chat- 
ham county for not signing the Association, presented to them by one 
Doctor Piles, is highly approved of by this committee, and is ordered to 
be published in the Cape Fear Mercury. 

Account of Money paid and received for the use of the committee 
ithisTTieetinsf, 



as 

Rec'd Irora ino. Ashe, 3.5s. Jno. Holiingsworth, 8s. ) 

Francis Clayton, 8s. Wm. Robeson, 8s. Wm. V <» ♦> q 
Jones, Ss. Jno Gluince, I6s. fines for being abseiir. ) 

Paid, To Wm. Mactierfor 200 lbs. Gunpowder, at 3s. 30. 
To James Harper's Buy, ai twice in pari of two ex- 
presses, one to the Southwai'd and the other Id the 1 10s. 
Nothward, 

To James Grant in full to this meeeting, 2 8s. 

To expenses for paper, 2s. 8. 



37 3 8 



The Committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



Tuesday, June 7th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Esq., Chairman. 

Arch. McLaine, Jno. Q,uince, James Walker, Jno. Ancrum, Wm. 
Purviance, Jno Robeson, Andrew Ronaldson, James Bly the, William 
Ewins, Robt. Hogg. 

Where^, the Continental Congress did resolve, in the words follow- 
ing, viz: And we further agree and associate, that we will have no 
trade, commerce, dealings, or intercourse whatever, with any colony or 
pro vi ice in North America, which shall not accede to, or shall hereafter 
violate this Association, and whereas, the Parliament of Great Britain 
in pursuance of their plan for subjugating and distressing the Colonies, 
bave peissed a Bill for depriving our Brethren in New England, of 
the benefit of fishing on their own coasts. Therefore, Resolved, that 
all exportations irom this town and county, for tl.e army and Navy, in 
America, Newfoundland or to the Northern colonies, from whence any 
supplies of provisions can be had for those purposes, ought in the opin- 
ion of this committee, immediately to be suspended, and that it be ac- 
cordingly recommended to pvery merchant, immediately to suspend all 
exportation to those places, uiial the Continental Congress shall give 
further orders therein. 

Paid to James Harper his account for two expresses sent 
by him to Brunswick and New River £4 Os. Od, 

The committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



At St general meeting of the several committees of the Distjict of 



^^ ilmington held at the Court House in Wilmingtonj Tuesday the 20th 
of June, 1775. 

For the County of New Hanover. 
Present : Cornelius Harnett, Francis Clayton, Geo, Moore, sen., Jno» 
Ashe, Jno. Quince, Wm. Ewins, James Walker, James Blythe, John 
Dcvane, Wm. Jones, Long Creek, Wm. Jones. W. T., John Ancrum, 
James Moore, Rob't Hogg, Alexander Lillington, Wm. Robeson, Sam. 
Swann, Fred. Jones, sr., Jno. Colvin, Jno, Holhngsworth, Sam. Ashe, 
Geo. Merrick, And'w Ronaldson, Arch'd Maclaine, James Wright, Jno. 
Marshall, Sampson Mosely, Tho. Devane. 

For the County of Urunswick, 
Rich'd Quince, sen., Rob't Howe, Thos. Davis, Rob't Ellis, Rich'd 
Quince, jr., Parker Quince, Wm. Lord, Wm. Cains, Tho. Allen, St'^p. 
Daniel, Wm. Davis, James Bell. 

For Bladen County. 

Nath'l Richardson, Thos. Owens, Walter Gibson, Thos. Brown, 
Faithful Graham. 

For Duplin. 

Charles Ward, 

The Committee having met agreeable to summons, tliey proceeded 
to choose a Chairman ; accordingly Richard Quince, Sr, was unani- 
mously chosen, 

A letter from the Committee of Cross Creek was read, and an answer 
was ordered to be wrote by the Chairman to the said letter. 

The Governor's Proclamation, dated at Fort Johnston, the 16th inst. 
was ordered to be read. 

On motion, Ordered that a committee be appointed to answer the 
said Proclamation ; and that Robt. How, Arch. McLaine, and Samuel 
Ashe, be a committee for that purpose. 

On motion, for leave to Elletson to import his house servants 

from Jamaica, not exceeding six in number. 

It was carried against the motion, by a great majority. 

The Committee then adjourned to 10 o'clock to-morrow. 



Wednesday, 10 o'clock. 
The committee met according taadjournmciit. 



31 

On motion, ordered, That Cornelius Harnclt be appointed to write 
to the committee of Cumberland County, to secure the Gunpowder 
that may be in that county, for the use of the public : 

On motion, For the more effectually disarming and keeping the ne- 
groes in order, within the County of New Hanover. 

It was, unanimously agreed, by the members of the committee, for 
said county, to appoint Patrols to search for, and take from Negroes, all 
kinds of arms whatsoever, and such guns or other arms found with 
Negroes, shall be delivered to the Captain of the company of the Dis- 
trict in which they are found — to be distributed by the said officers, to 
those of his company who may be in want of arms, and who are not 
able to purchase : and that the following persons be Patrols, as follows : 
From Beauford's Ferry, to the end of Geo. Mooh e's District. 

Sam'l Swann, Thos. Moseley, Geo. Palmer, Henry Beauford, Wm. 
Robeson, Luke Woodward. 

Burgaw. 

Sampson Moseley, William Moseley, Jno. Ashe, jr. 
Black River. 

Geo. Robeson, Thos. Devane, Jno. Colvin, Thos. Corbit, jr., Benj. 
Robeson, James Bloodworth. 

Welch Tract. 

Barnaby Fuller, Geo. McGowan, Wm. Wright, Martin Wells, 
Morgem Swinney, David Jones. 

Beatty's Swamp, to Perry's Creek. 
Elisha Atkinson, Bishop Swann, Aaron Hrskins, Peter McClammy, 
Jno. Watkins, Edmond Moore, Jno. Lucas. 

Perry's Creek, to Baldhead. 
^ James Middleton, Charles Morris, Jno. Nichols, Samuel Marshall, 
Joseph Nichols, James Ewing, George Stundere, Jas. Jones. 

Long Creek. 
Wm. Jones, James Ratcliff, John Kenner, Thos. Bloodworth, Wm. 
Hennepy, Jno. Marshall. 

Holly Shelter. 
Thos. Jones, Edward Doty, Henry Williams, Thos. Simmons, Jno. 
Simmons, Joshua Sutton. 

Resolved, That the following Association, formerly agreed by the 
Committee of New Hanover county, stand as the Association of this 



:j2 

Committee, and that it be recommended to the inhabitants oi this Dis- 
trict, to sign the same, as spee(?i!y as possible, and that the same, with 
this Resolution, be print*^d in t'h« public Newspaper. 

Association. 
Unanimously agreed to, hy the inhabitants of New tianover Coun- 
ty in North Carolina, 19th June, 1775. 

The actual commencement of Hostilities against this Continent by 
the British Troops, in the bloody scene, on the 19th April last, near 
Boston : The increase 6f arbitrary impositions from a wicked and des- 
potic ministry; aiid the dread of instigated insurrections in the colo- 
nies, are causes sufficient to drive an oppressed people to the use of 
arms. We, therefore, the subscribers, inhabitants of New Hanover 
County, having ourselves bound by that most sacred of all obligationSj 
the duty of good citizens towards an injured country; and, thorough- 
ly convinced that, under our present distressed circumstances, we shall 
be justified, before God and Man, in resisting force by force : Do unite 
ourselves under every tie of religion and honor and associate as a band 
in her defence against every foe; hereby solemnly engaging that when- 
ever our Continental or Provincial Councils shall decree it necessary 
we will go forth and be ready to sacrifice our lives and fortunes to se- 
cure her freedom and safety. This obligation to continue m full forc6 
until a reconciliation shall take place between Great Britain and Ame- 
rica, upon constitutional principles, an event most we ardently desire and- 
we will hold all those persons inimical to the liberties of the Colonies, 
who shall refuse to subscribe this Association. And we will in all 
things, follow the advice of our Commiitee, respecting the purposes 
aforesaid, the preservation of peace and good order, and the safety df 
individual and private property. 

The Committee appointed to answer the Governor's Proclamation, 
of the 16th inst, return<5d the following answer, which was read arid 
ordered to be prmted in the public papers and in hand bills. 

At a General meeting of the several committees of the District of 
Wilmington, held at the Court-house, in Wilmington, Tuesday, 20th 
June, 1775. 

Whereas, his Excellency, Josiah Martin, Esq., hath by Proclama- 
tion, dated at Fort Johnston, the 16th day of June, 1775, and read thiis 
day in the committee, endeavored to persuade, seduce, andintimidate the 
good people of the province, from taking measures to preserve those 



33 

rights, and that liberty, to which, as the subjects of a British King 
they have the most undoubted claim, without which, life would be but 
futile considerations, and which therefore, it is a duty they owe to them- 
selves, their Country, and posterity, by every effort, and at every risk, 
to maintain, support, and defend against any invasion or encroachment 
whatsoever. 

And whereas, many unconstitutional and oppressive acts of Parlia- 
ment, invasive of every right and privilege, and dangerous to the free- 
dom of America, have laid the people of this colony under the fatal ne- 
cessity of appointing committees for the several districts, Towns, and 
Counties, of this province 5 who were instructed, carefully to guard 
against every encroachment upon their invaluable rights, and steadily 
oppose the operation of those unconstitutional acts, framed by a wicked 
administration entirely to destroy the freedom of America : and as a- 
mong other measures, those committees found it absolutely necessary, 
either by themselves, or by persons appointed under them, to visit the 
people, and fully to explain to them the nature and dangerous tenden- 
-cy of those acts, which the Tools of administration, were by every 
base art, endeavoring to prevail upon them to submit to : and as his 
Excellency has endeavored by his Proclamation, to weaken the influ- 
ence, and prejudice the characters of those Committees, and the per- 
sons appointed under them, by wantonly, cruelly, and unjustly, repre- 
senting them as ill-disposed people, propagating false and scandalous 
reports, derogatory to the honor and justice of the King ; and also, by 
other illiberal and scandalous imputations expressed in the said Procla- 
mation : We, then, the Committees of the counties of New Hanover, 
Brunswick, Bladen, Duplin and Onslow, in order to prevent the per- 
nicious influence of the said Proclamation, do, unanimously, resolve, that 
in our opinion, his Excellency Josiah Martin, Esq ; hath by the said 
Proclamation, and by the whole tenor of his conduct, since the unhap- 
py disputes between Great Britain and the colonies, discovered himself 
to be an enemy to the happiness of this colony in particular, and to the 
freedom, rights, and privileges of America in General. 

Resolved, nem. con. That the said proclamation contains many 
things asserted to be facts, which are entirely without foundation ; par- 
ticularly the methods said to have been made use of, in order to com- 
pel the people to sign an Association against any invasion, intestine 
insurrection, or unjust encroachments upon their rights and privileges^ 



34 

no person having signed such Association but from the fullest convic- 
tion that it was essentially necessary to their freedom and saiety ; and 
that if his Excellency founded such assertions upon information, it 
must have been derived from persons too weak or wicked to have any 
claim to his credit or attention. 

Resolved, nem. con. That it is the opinion of this committee, that 
America owes much of its present sufferings to the information given 
by Governors and men in office, to administration, who having them- 
selves adopted belief from improper informants, or, in order to sacrifice 
to the pleasure of the ministry, have falsely represented, that His Majes- 
ty's American subjects were not generally averse from the arbitrary 
proceedings of a wicked administration, but that the opposition, made 
to such unconstitutional measures, arose from the influence of a few 
individuals upon the minds of the people, whom they have not failed to 
represent as "false, seditious, and abandoned men ;" by these means, 
inducing the ministry to believe, that the Americans would be easily 
brought to submit to the cruel impositions so wickedly intended for 
them; that his Excellency's proclam.ation is evidently calculated for 
this purpose, and is also replete with the most illiberal abuse and scan- 
dalous imputations, tending to defame the characters of many respect- 
able persons, who zealously attached to the liberty of their country, 
were pursuing every laudable method to support it. 

Resolved, nem. con. That the resolution respecting America, intro- 
duced by Lord North, into the British House of Parliament, which his 
Excellency, in his proclamation, alludes to, is such a glaring affront to 
the common sense of the Americans, that it added insult to the injury 
it intended them : That Lord North, himself, when he introduced it,, 
declared to the House, that he did not believe America would accept of 
it, but that it might possibly tend to divide them, and if it broke one 
link in their chain of Union, it would render the enforcing his truly 
detestable acts the more easy ; therefore. 

Resolved, That this was a low, base, flagitious, wicked attempt to 
entrap America into Slavery, and which they ought to reject with the 
contempt it deserves ; that the uncandid and insiduous manner in which 
his Excellency has mentioned the said resolution, is a poor artifice to- 
seduce, mislead, and betray the ignorant and incautious into ruin and 
destruction, by inducing them to forfeit the inestimable blessings of 
freedom, with which nature and the British Constitution have so hap^ 



35 

pily invested tliem ; and also, indisputably proves, that his Excellency 
IS ready to become an instrument in the hands of administration to riv- 
et those chains so wickedly forged for America. 

Resolved, nem. con. That at this alarming crisis, when the dearest 
rights, and privileges of America are at stake, no confidence ought to 
be reposed in those, whose interest is to carry into execution every 
measure of administration, however profligate and abandoned ; and who 
thought they are conscious those measures will not bear the test of 
enquiry and examination, will and endeavour to gloss over the most 
palpable violation of truth with plausibility, hoping, thereby, to blind, 
mislead and delude the people ; that this Committee therefore, earnestly 
recommend it to the other committees of this province, and likewise to 
all our Brethren and suffering fellow subjects thereof, cautiously to 
guard against all those endeavours, which have been, or shall be made 
to deceive them, and to treat such attempts as wicked efforts of the 
Tools of Government calculated to throw this Country into confusion, 
and by dividing to enslave it. 

The committee adjourned till a meeting occasionally. Arccoiint of 
■money received, at 'this committee. 

From Bladen county, by the hands of Mr. Richard- 
son, in good bills - - - - 

One Bill counterfeit of - - - - 

From Cornelius Harnett, for sundry subscriptions to 
purchase gunpowder . - . _ 

From Wm. Jones, L. C. by the hand of R. Hogg for do 
do, Jno. Slingsby - - - do 

do. Doct. Cobham - - - do 

do. R'd Bradley - - - do 



£36 lis. 

2 


2d 



49 15 

10 

5 

2 10 

1 


6 








Money paid for Sundries £106 16 8 

•Paid for 350 lbs. Gunpowder in the hands of Btir- 

gwin, Humphrey &-co, pr, Rec't. - - - £52 10s. Od. 

P'd Jno. Slingsby for 50 lbs. Gunpowder in his hands 7 10 
P'd "VVm. Grant to pay for cleaning out the court-house 2 6 

60 2 6 



At an occasional meeting of the committe, June, 1775, 
Present: Cornelius Harnett, chairman ; Rob't Hogg, Arch'd Mac- 



3(J 

laine, James Walker, Win. Ewins, James Blrytiie, kSani'l Marshall. 

Mr. James EUetson Bowen applied to this committee for leave to 
land sundry Household Furniture, &c., imported in the ship Success, 

Edmund Cheeseman commander the property of Elletson, who 

is coming to reside in this province. The said Bovvcn being sworn 
upon the holy Evangelists of Almighty God ; declared the list of Fur- 
niture, (fcc, delivered to this committee, by him, is solely for the use of 

Elletson j and that no part of it is, or was intended for sale, and 

that, if on opening the packages, any merchandize should be found, he 
will immediately acquaint the committee therewith, to be disposed of 
as they shall direct. 

Rob'tHogg, a member of this committee, desired to withdraw him- 
self from further attendance, as he is going to the back country. 

The committee then adjourned till the next occasional meeting. 



Monday, July 3rd, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman, Arch'd Maclaine, Jno. Robeson, Jno. Ancrum, Wm. Ewins, 
James Walker, Sam'l Marshall, Tim. Bloodworth* 

Whereas, it was Resolved, at a session of the Honorable Continental 
Congress, now assembled at Philadelphia, That Thursday the 20th 
July next should be held as a day of fasting and prayer. 

It was unanimously agreed to in Committee met at Wilmington, that 
the humble observance of that day should be warmly inculcated on 
every inhabitant of this province and that the following resolve of the 
Honorable Continental Congress should be made public* 

Ordered, That two hundred copies of the said resolve be printed 
in hand bills and distributed through this colony. 

On motion, ordered, That the chairman of the Committee write to 
Allen McDonald, of Cumberland county, to know from himself respect^ 
ing the reports that circulate of his having an intention to raise Troops 
to support the arbitrary measures of the ministry against the Americans, 
in this colony ; and whether he liad not made an offer of his services to 
Governor Martin tor that purpose. 

Ordered, That the following agreement be put up at the Court 
house. 

Whereas, several members of the Wilmington Committee seem to find 



it inconvenient to givetlieir attendance with that punctuality that the pre- 
sent exigence of affiiirs now demand, and as it has been the practice of all 
the Northern Colonies since American politics have been drawing ;o- 
wards their present crisis, to re-elect their Committee men for these rea- 
sons, and that the people may have an opportunity of confirming or 
annulling their former choice, it h^s been unanimously agreed to in 
committee held this day at Wilmington, to make the above public, and 
request the attendance of all the inhabitants qualified to vote, for mem- 
bers of assembly, to meet at the Court house on Thursday next, and 
elect a committee to represent said town — as it has been thought that 
the present committee is not sufficiently numerous, it as recommended 
to the Electors to take the augmentation of the future one into consid- 
eration. 

The committee then adjourned till the next occasional meeting. 



Wednesdav, July 5th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman, Arch'd Maclaine, James Walker, Jno. Ancrum,Sam'l Ashcj 
Jno. Ashe, James Blythe, Jno. Quince, Wm. Ewins, Tim.Bloodworth, 
Wm. Purviance, Wm. Jones, Sam'l Swann, Joel Parish, An. Ronald- 
son. 

A letter of the 27th June last, was received from the committee of 
intelligence, in Charlestown, S. C, by Captain Charles Cotesworth 
t*inkney, and read this day, requesting that this committee may give 
proper countenance to Captain Pinkney and such officers as accompa- 
ny him, being sent with an intention to raise men for the defence of 
American Liberty. 

Resolved, therefore. That the chairman of this committee be impow- 
ered to write to the committees of the several counties and towns in 
this Province, earnestly recommending their aid and assistance to the 
officers from South Carolina, in raising such numbers of men as may 
be necessary to complete their levies now raising for the common de- 
fence and support of the Liberties of America, and to express the sense 
this committee has of the noble and patriotic conduct of our sister Col- 
ony in the common cause. 

On motion. Resolved, That the exportation of all kinds of Provision 
to the Island of Nantucket, should be stopped until further orders by 



■38 

the Continental Congress, and it is recommended to the Merchants oi' 
this Port to observ'e the same. 

John Tiially was sent for and appeared before this committee, when 
he solemnly declared that he never had by any means whatsoever en- 
deavored to alienate any person or persons from their duty in support 
of the general cause ; and desired an advertisement which he signed 
to be put in the Mercury. 

The committee then adjourned till next occasional meeting. 



Thursday, July 6th 1775. 

At an election for committee men, for the town of Wilmington, agree- 
able to a Resolve of the late committee on Monday the 3rd inst., the 
following persons were duly elected to represent the said town : 

Cornelius Harnett, Francis Clayton, Archibald Maclaine, Wm. Hoop- 
er, James Walker, Jno. Ancrum, Jno. Q,uince, Jno, Robeson, Wm. Pur- 
viance, Wm. Ewins, A. Konaldson, James Blythe, Peter Mallett, Wm. 
Wilkinson, Adam Boyd, Hy. Toomer, James Tate, Jno. DuBois John 
Forster, Doc't Jas. Geekie, Frans. Brice, Caleb Grainger, Wm. Camp- 
bell. 



Friday, July 7th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Francis Clayton, Archibald Maclaine, 
James Walker, Jno. Ancrum, Jno. Quince, Jno. Robeson, Wm. Ewins, 
A. Ronaldson, Peter Malett, Wm. Wilkinson. Adam Boyd, Hy. Toom- 
er, Jas. Tate, Jno, DuBois, Jno. Forster, Jas. Geekie, Francis Brice, 
Caleb Grainger, Wm. Campbell, Wm. Miller. 

The new committee having met agreeable to a Summons, proceeded 
to choose a chairman, and deputy chairman : 

Accordingly, Cornelius Harnett, esquire, was unanimously chosen 
Chairman, and Mr. Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman. 

On motion. Resolved, unanimously, as the opinion of this Commit- 
tee, that the immediate calling of a Provincial Convention is a measure 
absolutely necessary, and that the Chairman do recommend the same to 
Samuel Johnston, Esq. 

On motion. Resolved, unanimously, that every white man capable of 
bearmg arms, resident in Wilmington, shall, on or before Monday, the 
10th instant, enrol himself in one of the two Companies there, and that 



.19 

eTery man of the above description, who has not signed the Association^ 
apply to the subscriber, in whose possession for that purpose it is, and 
subscribe the same. A neglect of the above will be considered by the 
Committee as a declaration of intentions inimical to the common cause 
of America ; and the Committee further direct, that no master shall pre- 
vent his apprentices or servants from complying with the Resolution — 
to be signed by the Secretary. 

On motion, Ordered, that Cornelius Harnett, Arch'd Maclaine, Fr's 
Clayton, Adam Royd, and John Ancrum, be a committee of Corres- 
pondence till the next monthly meeting of the Committee for the Town^ 
and County. 

On motion, Ordered, that the Committee of Intelligence draw up a 
Resolution to hold James Hepburn up to the public, as inimical to the 
liberties of his country and the common cause of America, which is as 
follows : 

Whereas, this committee hath received information from undoubted' 
authority, that James Hepburn of Cumberland county, attorney at law, 
did lately apply to the committee of that county, for orders to raise a 
Company Hinder the Militia law, to jpreserve the Independence of the 
subjects, and the dignify of the Government,^^ and afterwards declar- 
ed that, had the application met with success, the Company was inten- 
ded to act against the American cause. And, whereas. Oath hath this 
day been made by James Clardy, of Bladen county, that the said James 
Hepburn, in a conversation with the said Clardy, after inquiring what 
officers had been chosen for the county of Bladen, and asking if the 
said Clardy was not a committee-man, said, in derision, that these were 
fine times when the country was to be governed by Committees ; and, 
in order to intimidate the said James Clardy, and other the good people 
of this Province, falsely and maliciously asserted that there were 50,000 
Russians in his Majesty's pay, and that they had embarked, or were to 
embark immediately, in order to subdue the Americans : and, whereas^ 
it is notorious that the said James Hepburn, hath very lately been with 
Governor Martin at Fort Johnston, in company with some gentlemen 
lately settled in this Province, as it is said, and universally believed, to 
offer their services to the said Governor, and to obtain his orders for 
raising mercenaries to suppress the noblest struggles of insulted liberty. 
It is, therefore, 

Resolved, unanimously, That the said James Hepbu:n, is a false 



40 

scandalous, and seditious iiiccndiaiyj who, destitute of property and in- 
fluence, as he is of principle, basely and traitorously endeavors to make 
himself conspicuous in favor of tyranny and oppression, in hopes, by 
violating the primary and fundamental laws of nature and the British 
Constitution, to raise a fortune to his family upon the subversion of 
Liberty, and the destruction of his country. 

Ordered, that this Resolve, and this Preamble upon which it is foun- 
ded, be published; in order that the Friends to American Liberty may 
avoid all dealings and intercourse with such a wicked and detestable 
character. 

The committee then adjourned till the next occasional meeting. 



Wednesday, July 12, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee : 

Present : Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, 
James Walker, Caleb Grainger, Wm. Campbell, Wm. Ewins, Adam 
Boyd, Dr. Geekie, J. Ancrum, Peter Mnlett, Andrew Ronaldson, Wm. 
Purviance, Henry Toomer, James Blythe, Timothy Bloodworth, Jno. 
Dubois, John Robeson. 

On motion, Ordered, that it is the opinion of this Committee, a List 
of all the white male inhabitants of this Town, from 16 to 60 years of 
age, shoiild be taken, and that John Dubois, James Blythe, Henry Too- 
mer, and Andrew Ronaldson, take such a List, and make return to this 
Committee, or to the Secretary, as soon as possible. Also, a List of all 
the free Mulattoes and Negroes in the said Town. 

The Committee then adjourned till the next meeting. 



Saturday, July 15, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman. John Robeson, Wm. Wil- 
kinson, John Forster, Wm. Campbell, Arch'd Maclaine, Wm. Purvi- 
ance, Wm. Ewins, Timothy Bloodworth, James Blythe, Peter Mallett, 
Henry Toomer, James Geekie, 

Resolved, unanimously. That a reinforcement of as many men as 
will voluntarily turn out; be immediately dispatched to join Colonel 
Moore, who is now on his way to Fort Johnston ; and that it be recom- 
mended to the Captains of the Independent and Artillery Companies in 
Wilmington, and the officers of several companies in this county, to 



muster their men, and immediately equip those who are willing to go 
on that service. 

The committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



Thursday, July 20th, 177i. 

At a monthly meeting of the committee for the town of Wilmington, 
and county of New Hanover. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett chairman, Francis Clayton, deputy chair- 
man, Fred'k Jones, Sr., Alexander Lillington, Wm. Wilkinson, John 
Forster, Jno. Colvin, Jno. Hollingsworth, Thos. Devane, Jno. Devane, 
Henry Toomer, Jno, Ashe, Sam'l Ashe, James Geekie, Jno. Ancrum, 
James Moore, Wm. Purviance, Francis Brice, Adam Boyd, Archibald 
Maclaine, James Tate, Wm. Campbell, Andw. Ronaldson, Peter Mal- 
iette, Jno. Robeson, James Blythe, Sam. Swann, Wm. Jones, W. T, 
Wm. Jones, L. C. Joel Parish, James Walker, Wm. Ewins, Thos. Blood- 
worth. 

"Visiting Members. 

jF'rom Cumberland County. Farquier Campbell, Rob. Cochran, 

From Duplin County. James Moore, Jno. James, Alex. Outlaw. 

From Onsloio County. Jno Ashe, and Jno. Gibbs. 

From, Bladen County. Thos, Robeson, Thos. Owen, Walter Gib- 
son, Wm, Salter, James Council, Evan Ellis, Peter Robeson, Rob. Stu- 
art, James Richardson, Jno. King, James White, Rob. Wells, Thomas 
Brown, Wm. Stuart, 

Joseph Preston being brought before the committee and examined 
declared on oath, that it was a common report that John Collettj 
commander at Fort Johnston, had given encouragement to negroes to 
elope from their Masters and promised to protect them. 

The committee then adj ourned to 7 o'clock to-morrow. 



Friday, July 21st, 1775. 

The committee met according to adjournment. 

Present as before. 

On motion, ordered. That the Committee of Intelligence of this 
town, write to the committee of Cumberland, and congratulate them on 
the favorable disposition of their committee and county, to support the 
common cause of America. 

On motion. Resolved, That application be made to Mr. Samuel 
Campbell for the Muskets he has in his possession ; theprop«rty of th« 



public, in order that they may be lodged with the Secretary of this com' 
mittee, to be distributed to those who may be in want of arms. 

This Committee having taken into consideration an act of the British 
Parliament for restraining the trade of the Colonies of New Jersey, 
Pennsylvania, the counties of Newcastle, Kent and Sussex, on the Del- 
aware, Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina, to Great Britain, Ire- 
land and the British West Indies, which is to take place this day ; it is 

Resolved, unanimously, that the exception of this colony, and some 
others, out of the said act, is a base and mean artifice, to seduce them 
into a desertion of the common cause of America. 

Resolved, that we will not accept of the advantages insidiously 
thrown out by the said act, but will adhere strictly to such plans as have 
been, and shall be, entered into by the honorable continental Cong- 
ress ; so as to keep up a perfect unanimity with our sister colonies. 

The inhabitants of Poole (a seaport in the British channel) having 
manifested themselves, not only inimical to America ; but lost to every 
sense of honor and humanity, by petitioning Parliament to restrain the 
New England fisheries ; by which iniquitous act, the virtuous inhabit- 
ants of those colonies, are cruelly deprived of the means of procuring a 
subsistence ; and rendered almost dependent on the bounty of their 
neighbors ; in testimony of our resentment of a conduct so injurious to 
our fellow-citizens, and so disgraceful to human nature ; we unanim» 
ously Resolve, not to freight, or in any manner employ any shipping, 
belonging to that town ; and that we will not carry on any commercial 
intercourse or communication with the selfish people of Poole. 

Whereas, it appeared, upon incontestible evidence, that John Collett, 
commander of Fort Johnston, was preparing the said fort [under the 
auspices of Governor Martin] for the reception of a promised reinforce- 
ment, which was to be employed in reducing the good people of this 
province, to a slavish submission to the will of a wicked and tyrannic 
Minister ; and for this diabolical purpose, had collected several aban- 
doned profligates, whose crimes had rendered them unworthy of civil 
society ; and that the said commander, had wantonly detained vessels, 
applying for Bills of Health, thereby defeating the salutary purposes 
for which the Fort had been established and continued — had threaten- 
ed vengeance against magistrates, whose official opinion he chose to 
disapprove — had set at defiance the high sheriff of the county, in the 
©xx^Gution of his office, and treated the Icing's writs, when served on 



43 

liim for just debts, (which both as a soldier and a subject, it was his du- 
ty to obey) with the shameful contempt of wiping his b — k s — de with 
them — had with the most unparalleled injustice, detained and embez- 
sled a large quantity of goods, which having been wrecked near the 
Fort, had the highest claim to his attention and care, for the benefit of 
the sufferers ; in whose behalf, many and repeated applications had 
been legally made, in vain, to the said commander — had contrary to 
every principle of honor and honesty, most unwarrantably seized, by 
force, a quantity of corn, the private property of an individual ; an act 
of robbery the more inexcusable, as provisions were never withheld 
from him, whenever he would pay for them — had basely encouraged 
slaves from their masters, paid and employed them, and declared openly, 
that he would excite them to an insurrection : It also appeared that 
the said John CoUett, had further declared, that, as soon as the expect- 
ed reinforcement should arrive, the King's standard would be erected, 
and that, to it should be invited all those (as well slaves as others) who 
were base enough to take up arms eigainst their country. 

The Committee of New Hanover and Wilmington, having taken 
these things into consideration, judged it might be of the most perni- 
cious consequences to the people at large, if the said John CoUett should 
be suffered to remain in the Foit, as he might thereby have opportunity 
of carrying his iniquitous schemes into execution. This opinion hav- 
ing been communicated to the officers, and the committees of some 
neighboring counties, a great many volunteers were immediately col- 
lected ; a party of whom reached Brunswick, when accounts were re- 
ceived, that the said commander had carried off all the small arms, am- 
munition, and part of the Artillery, (the property of this Province) to- 
gether with his furniture, on board a Transport, hired for that purpose, 
there to remain until the reinforcement should arrive, and then again 
take possession of the Fort : the original design being thus frustrated, 
but the different detachments having met at Brunswick, about 500 men 
marched to the Fort, and burnt and destroyed all the Houses, &c. in 
and about the same ; demolished, as far as they could, the back part of 
the Fortification, and effectually dislodged that atrocious Freebooter. 

Resolved, therefore, that the thanks of the Committee be given to the 
officers and soldiers who, with such ready alacrity, gave their attend- 
ance to effect a matter of so much real importance to the public. 

The committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



44 

Monday, July Slst, 1775, 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Francis Clayton, Deputy 
Chairman, Henry Toomer, Wm. Purviance, James Blythe, Wm. Ew- 
ins, Wm. Wilkinson, Jno. Forster, Tim. Bloodworth, Wm. Campbell, 
Jno. Ancram, Peter Mallette, Andw. Ronaldson, Jno. DuBois, Adam 
Boyd, Fran's Clayton. 

The chairman presented to the committee, a letter from Mr. Rowan, 
inclosing one of the Governor's to a certain Lieu't Col. James Cotton ; 
it was 

Resolved, unanimously, That the committee approve of Mr. Row- 
an's conduct ; and that the committee of Intelligence be requested to 
write to him on the subject. 

Mr. Boyd read a letter from the Governor, requesting him to print 
an account of a late engagement at Bunker's-hill, between the King's 
troops and provincials : craved their opinion respecting the above pub- 
lication ; it was 

Resolved, unanimously. That he should acquaint the Governor, that 
the committee would not admit the separate publication in hand bills ; 
,but that if it was agreeable to him, it might be printed in the Mercury. 

Whereas, we have learned from undoubted authority, that Governor 
Martin intends going into the back country, to collect a number of men, 
for the purpose of disturbing the internal peace of this province. 

Resolved, that the Governor's going into the back country may be of 
great prejudice to this Province, as it is in all probability he intends 
kindling the flames of a civil war, and that the committees of the difler- 
«nt counties should be advised of his intentions and requested to keep a 
strict look out, and, if possible, to arrest him in his progress. 

The Committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



Tuesday, August S, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, chairman, Francis Clayton, deputy 
chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, James Geekie, John Robeson, John Du 
Bois, Francis Brice, Wm. Ewins, Samuel Collier, Timothy Blood- 
worth, John Rollings worth, Sampson Moseley, Thos. Nickson, John 
Cpjjipbel), Caleb Graingeij Andrew Ronaldson, Adam Boyd, William 



45 

Purviance, A. Lillington, P. Mallett, James Tate, Samuel Ashe, John 
Forster, William Wilkinson, Wm. Campbell. 

A letter from James Hepburn was received, with some others, and 
read to this Committee, wherein he begs to be restored again to the 
favor of the public. 

Ordered, that James Hepburn transmit to this Committee, a Deposi- 
tion certified by a Magistrate, respecting the matters with which he 
stands charged, a recantation of his conversation with James Clardy, 
and sign the Continental Association. 

At an election held this day for additional Delegates for this town 
and county, to represent them in General Convention to be held at 
Hillsborough, on the 20th inst. Arch'd Maclaine, esq. for the town, and 
Wm. Hooper, Alex. Lillington and James Moore, esq. for the county, 
were duly elacted by the Freehol(^rs, as additionol Delegates, with 
Cornelius Harnett, esq. for the to^n, George Moore, John Ashe and 
Samuel Ashe, esqrs. for the county, chosen on a former election, to repre- 
sent them in the aforesaid Convention. 

The Committee then adjourned to the next meeting. 



Wednesday, Aug. 9th, 1775, 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : Cornelius Harnett, Chairman, Archibald Maclaine, John 
Robeson, James Geekie, John Forster, Adam Boyd, Peter Mallett, Fran- 
cis Brice, Jno. DuBois, Tim. Bloodworth, Tlios. Bloodworth, Henry 
Toomer, Jas. Blythe, Wm. Purviance, Jno. Ancrum, Jas. Tate. 

Whereas, the late Continental Congress, in the fourth article of their 
Association for themselves and their constituents, agreed that the ear- 
nest desire 1;hey had, not to injure their fellow subjects in Great Britain, 
Ireland and the West Indies, induced them to suspend a non-exporta- 
tion, until the 10th day of September, 1775 ; at which time, if the said 
acts, and part of acts of the British Parliament thereinafter mentioned, 
should not be repealed ; they would n(jt directly or indirectly export 
any commodity whatsoever, to Great Britain, Ireland or the West In- 
dies, except rice, to Europe. And, whereas, information hath been 
made to the committee, that several merchants and traders, in the town 
of Wilmington, understand the said article, in this sense, that is to say, 
that if any ship or vessel should, before the said 10th day of Sept., be- 
gin to load, time and liberty would be allowed to complete the loading, 



46 

at any time, however extended, after the said 10th day of September; 
which would be a flagrant inh'action of the said Association. 

Resolvedj therefore, That no ship or vessel, on any pretence what- 
ever, shall take on board any merchandises or commodities from and 
after the 10th day of September next ; nor shall any person or persons 
presume to ship any goods, wares, or merchandises, on board of any 
ship or vessel, from and after the said 10th day of September, on pain 
of the displeasure of the public. 



Friday, August 11, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Cornelius Harnett, Chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, Peter 
Mallett, Henry Toomer, Wm. Purviance, Adam Boyd, Thos. Devane, 
Timothy Bloodworth, Wm. Campbell, John Forster, James Geekie, 
John Du Bois, William Wilkinson, Francis Brice, James Blythe, John 

Ancrum. 

On application made by John Giffard, from the committee of Wake, 
for a supply of Gunpowder. 

Ordered, that the Committee of Intelligence write to the committee ot 
Wake, and acquaint them of our inability to supply them with Gun- 
powder at this time : that whenever we have any to spare they may de- 
pend on our assistance. 

Whereas, this Commitiee has transmitted to the committee of Cum- 
berland, sundry papers that were thought necessary to be kept secret, 
and at the same time inclosed with them the opinion of this Commit- 
tee and the Oath of Secrecy, which this Committee have reason to be- 
Ueve they have neglected, by which means the contents of the said pa- 
pers have transpired : 

Resolved, therefore, that this Committee cannot for the future trans- 
mit to the committee of Cumberland, any papers of a secret nature, un- 
til we are satisfied that the Oath of Secrecy has been taken by that 
Committee, and that the Committee of Intelligence write to them ac- 
cordingly. 

Resolved, That Messrs, John Robeson, Wm. Campbell, and Wm. 
Wilkinson, be appointed to collect and take into their possession, all 
carriage guns and swivels, whether the property of the public or of pri- 
vate persons, for which they are to give such sufficient receipts as ai"e 
necessary. 



4? 

Thursday, Aug. 17, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman, Wm. Campbell, John 
DnBois, Henry Toomer, Caleb Grainger, John Forstcr, Wm. Wilkin- 
son, Wm. Ewins, James Blythe, Sam'l Marshall, James Tate, Wm. 
Purviance, John Ancrum, Peter Mallett, Fran's Brice, Andw. Ronald- 
son. 

On intelligence from Richard Q,uince, esq., concerning a quantity of 
gunpowder being sold by a negro in this town ; on examination of the 
parties it appears that one Peter Brown must have been privy to this af- 
fair ; and that a negro called Nicholas, was the negro who sold the 
powder. 

Resolved, That the said Peter Brown shall give security for his ap- 
pearance, when called on by this committee, when he produced William 
Miller and Thos. Brown, as his securities ; and the said Peter Brown 
became bound for his appearance in the penal sum of £50, and each 
of his securities in the sum of £ 25 prock money, to be forfeited on 
failure of the said Brown's appearance, when called upon by this Com- 
mittee. 

Resolved, That the said negro, (Nicholas) be sent to Gaol till the 
examination of Sparrow. 

Thursday Afternoon, August 17, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: Francis Clayton, deputy chairman. Will. Campbell, Jno. 
Du Bois, Henry Toomer, Caleb Grainger, John Forster, Will. W"ilkin" 
son, Wm. Ewins, James Blythe, Samuel Marshall, James Tate, Will. 
Purviance, John Ancrum, Peter Mallett, Francis Brice, Andrew Ron- 
aldson. 

A Letter was produced from Rich'd duince, intimating some alarm- 
ing information made in Brunswick, relative to the Governor's wicked 
intentions. 

Resolved, that Mr. J. Ancrum and Mr. J. Du Bois wait on the Com- 
mittee at Brunswick, to procure a certain account of that information, 
that proves satisfactory to this committee ; that a letter be wrote to 
the Brunswick committee, informing them that Mr. Ancrum and Mr. 
Du Bois were sent to get the account or information on oath, till which 
was done, this Committee could not comply with the request of sending 



down men for the protection and safety of the inliabitants of Brunswick, 
as the intelligence from thence was so imperfect that it was impossible 
to act with propriety. 

The committee then adjourned. 



Friday Morning, Aug. ISth, 1775r. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman, Wm. Purviance, Jas. 
Tate, Thos. Bloodvvorth, James, Blythe, And'w Ronaldson, Timothy 
Blood worth, Jno. Robeson, Wm. Ewins, Wm. Wilkinson, John Fors- 
ter, Wm. Campbell, James Walker, Peter Mallett, Fran's Brice, Caleb 
Grainger, Henry Toomer. 

Several letters were received, that had been taken from an express, 
sent by his Excellency, to the back country with dispatches ; those of 
any importance were taken to the Congress, by Col. James Moore. 

A letter was read from the Governor to Dr. Cobham, desiring he 
would send down some particular medicines. 

Resolved, That Dr. Cobham be desired not to send the medicines,' 
which he readily agreed to, on being called into committee. 

Mr, Samuel Campbell waited on this committee, and produced an 
instrument of writing, styled by the Governor a Proclamation ; the 
said piece was read by Fran's Clayton ; after which, it was ordered ttf 
be kept in the possession of this Committee. 

The committee then adjourned. 

Friday Afternoon, 3 o'clock^ 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present : Francis Clayton, deputy chairman. Will. Purviance, Jas. 
Tate, Thos. Bloodvvorth, James Blythe, And. Ronaldson, Tim. Blood- 
worth, John Robeson, Wm. Ewins, John Du Bois, Will. Wilkinson, 
John Forster, Wm. Campbell, James Walker, Peter Mallett, Francis 
Brice, Caleb Grainger, Henry Toomer, John Ancrum. 

On motion. Ordered, that Lt. Col. Cotton be sent for, and escorted 
here by a Guard for tliat purpose — who attended accordingly. 

After his examination, he was remanded to confinement. 

Mr. Williams, sen. was then ordered in and attended — passed exam- 
ination, and remanded back to confinement. 

On motion. Ordered, that Mr. Clayton write to Bladen a letter of 
thanks to that committee for apprehending the above men. 



The Committee adjourned till 9 o'clock to-morrow morning. 

Saturday Morning, 9 o'clock. 

The committee met according to adjournment. 

Present: Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman, John Forster, Peter 
Mallett, A. Ronaldson, James Blythe, Tim. Blood worth, Thos. Blood- 
worth, John Ancrum, Wm. Campbell, John DuBois, Wm. Ewins, Jno. 
Robeson, Fran's Brice, James Walker, Wm. Wilkinson, Henry Toom- 
er. 

Mr. Cotton. Mr. Sam'l Williams, and his son Jacob Williams, being 
ordered before this committee ; they all, and voluntarily, of their own 
accord, signed the Association entered into by the inhabitants of this 
county ; and readily took an Oath drawn up by the deputy chairman. 

The said James Cotton, Sam'l and Jacob Williams, very cheerfully 
consented to go to the Congress, to be held at Hillsboro' on the 21st 
inst., there to pass whatever examination may be thought proper by 
the said Congress. 

Ordered, That they be attended by a few gentlemen who are going 
to Hillsborough ; and that the deputy chairman write to the Congress, giv- 
ing an account of these men, since they were taken in Bladen county. 

Captain Thomas Fitch appeared before the committee, and swore on 
the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that the cargo he had on board 
the schooner Swallow, was not intended, nor should not be landed at 
any Port, except in some of the West India Islands ; and that he is to 
proceed to Hispaniola, and from thence to Jamaica. Ordered, that the 
certificate produced by Captain Fitch, from Humphrey and .Tewkes, 
be filed among the committee papers. 

Saturday Evening, 8 o'clock. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: Francis Clayton, Deputy Chairman. Wm. Wilkinson, 
James Blythe, Wm. Ewins, Henry Toomer, Jno. DuBois, Jno. Forster, 
Fran's Brice, William Campbell, John Ancrum, Peter Mallett, 

Ordered, That Mr. Cotton, and the two Williams's be allowed to go 
up to the Convention by way of X Creek. 

The committee then adjourned. 



Monday, 21st Aug., 1775. 
At a monthly meeting of the committee. 



50 

Present: Francis Clayton, Depnty Chairman. Wra. Purviaucc, 
Fred'k Jones, Sampson Moseley, Wm. Campbell, J. Hollingsworth, 
Sara. Marshall, And'w Ronaldson, Tim. Blood worth, Thos. Mixon, 
Wm. Wilkinson, Henry Toomer, John Forster, John DiiBois John 
Robeson, Fran's Brice, Sam'l Swann, Peter Mallett. James Tate. 

On motion, made, whether Captain Maclean (who has shewn himself 
inimical to the liberties of America,) should not in a limited time depart 
this Province. 

Resolved, That if Captain Maclean does not come into this commit- 
tee and make a recantation of his sentiments in regard to America with- 
in 30 days from this date; that he be ordered to depart this Province. 



October, 5th, 1775. 
At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Pfossnt: Oornaliiis Hirnett, Chairman. Tim, Bloodworth, A. Lil- 
lington, Jno. Dwane, John H^ollingsworth, James Moore, A.Ronald- 
son, Wm. Wilkinson, Wm. Ewins, Wm. Campbell, Jno. Ancrum, Wm. 
Purviance, Adam Boyd, Caleb Grainger. 

Whereas, it appears to this committee that several vessels loaded and 
cleared out by the officers of His Majesty's customs, are still remaining 
in this river, 

Resolved, That every vessel now in the River of Cape Fear, load- 
(£id and cleared out as above (before the 10th day of Sept., last,) do pro- 
ceed on their respective voyages within ten days from this date. 

It appears to this committee, that Moses Buchanan is confined in the 
count V Gaol' by virtue of a writ served on him (since the 10th day of 
September last,) at the suit of Robert Bannerman, contrary to a Resolve 
of the Congress of this colony, l-itely held at Hillsborough; prohibiting 
the commencement of any civil suits without the consent of a Com- 
mitte. Ordered, that in pursuance of such Resolve, that the said Moses 
Buchanan be discharged from his confinement. 

OCTOBEE, 11th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: John Ancrnm, in the chair. A. Maclainc, James Geekie, 
John Forster, Wm. Ewins, P. Mallett, A. Ronaldson, Adam Boyd. 

Col. James Moore having applied to this comriiiitee for 150 lbs. gun- 
powdei, and 6 cwt. of lead or ball for the use oi the troops under his 
comtDand. 



«1 

Ordered, That the above quantity of ammunition be delivered to 
Col. Moore, or his order, as he may have occasion for the same. 

Mr. Daniel Southcrland applied for leave to import a carp) of salt, 
from the West Indies ; whereupon, the question being put, this com- 
mittee declined giving any opinion, and referred it to the coramittse of 
safety. 

MoND-W, October 16th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, in the chair. A Maclaine, P. Mallett, \V, 
Ewans. F. Brire, J. Forster, W. Wilkinson, A. Ronaldson, Jas. Tate. 

On application from capt. McGill, of the sloop Ranger, for permis- 
sion to clear out his sloop in ballast, Ordered, that capt. McGill have 
leave to clear out for the port of Ne-^ York only, and that he be allow- 
ed to take on board any quantity of deerskins he may choose. Grant 
paid 8s. 

On application from Alex. Hostler, Ordered, that the paper imported 
in capt. Weir's vessel, and now in the hands of Adam Boyd, be sold at 
Vendue for the use of the Press only, or be immediately delivered to A. 
Hostler, to be re -^hipped. 

Ordered, that Francis Brice be appointed Secretary to this Commit- 
tee, during the absence of Tliomas Craike. 

Wilmington, Tuesday, October 17th, 1775. 

Present : John Ashe, .Tnhn Devane, Wm. Jones, sen. Wm. Jones, jr. 
Charles Hollingsworth, Timoihy Bloodwortli. 

Ordered, That Prancis Brice be appointed to keep the Poll for the 
election of delegates, and appointment of committee-men for the coyn- 

At an election this day, agreeable to a Resolve of the late Congress 
of this Colony, for the appointment of Delegates to represent this town 
and county in Congress, the enaiing year; Cornelius Harnett, Esqr., 
was duly elected as a delegate io represent this town ; and Sam'l Ashe, 
John Ashe, Sampson Moseley, John Hollingsworth, and John Devane, 
Esqr's, were also duly elected to represent the couniy. The commit- 
tee for the town and county, were also nominated agreeable to a Resolve 
of the said Congress. 

Those for the town were, John Ancrum, Jas. VValker, Jno. Q,uince 
Peter Mallett, Wm. Campbell, Sam, Campbell, Wm. E\\ins, Henrv'p 



32 

Toomer, John Slingsby, Wm. "Wilkinson, John Forster, Jas. Geekie, 
John Robeson, Charles Jewkes, Andrew Ronaldson. 

Wednesday, October 25th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the new committee. 

Present: John Ancrum, Charles Jewkes, John Slingsby, Peter Mal- 
lett, Henry Toomer, Wm. Campbell, James Geekie, John Forster, 
Wm. Ewins. 

The committee proceeded to choose a chairman, and deputy chair- 
man; the question being put, John Ancrum was chosen as chairman, 
and James Walker, deputy chairman. 

Samuel Campbell appeared, and declined serving as a committe-man 
as it would be very inconvenient for him to attend. Andrew Ronald- 
son also declined serving, as he was not allowed to be a Freeholder at 
the election, therefore, had no right to be committee-man. The Com- 
mittee nominated, in their room. John Du Bois and John Kirkwood, 
who being sent for readily agreed to serve in commiitee. 

This committee then proceeded to appoint a Committee of Secrecy 
and Correspondence. John Ancrum, James Walker, Wm. Campbell, 
Charles Jewkes, John Slingsby, John Du Bois, and Peter Mallett, were 
accordingly nominated. 

On motion. Ordered, that the paper now in the hands of Adam Boyd, 
be sold to-morrow morning, at 11 o'clock ; that J. Shngsby, Wm. Cump- 
bell and Peter Mallett see that the same is sold. Also, Ordered, that one 
ream of paper be purchased for the use of this committee only. 



Monday, October 30th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present: John Ancrum, chairman. John Slingsby, John Forster, 
John Kirkwood, John Du Bois, William Campbell, James Geekie, Wil- 
liam Wilkinson. 

On motion, Ordered, that John Ancrum, John DuBois, John Kirk- 
wood and James Geekie, take a list of the inhabitants of Wilmington, 
agreeable to a Resolve of the Congress of this Colony, lately held at 
Hillsborough ; and that they make a return of the same at the next 
meeting of this committeo. 



Friday, November 3rd, 1775. 
On application from Mr, John Hunt ; the committee met. 



Present: John Ancriim, Chairman. Peter Mallctt, John Shngsbjr, 
Wm. Wilkinson, John Forster, John DuBois, William E wins, Henry 
Toomer. 

Mr. John Hunt came in, and produced two Letters to His Excellen- 
cy, recommendina: said Hunt as Register for Granville county ; and the 
Rev. Mr. Wm. McKenzie as a clergyman for said county. On exam- 
ination of John Hunt, on oath; found he had no other papers for the 
Governor; therefore, 

Ordered, That Mr. John Hunt be allowed to go down to his Excel- 
lency, on board the Cruiser, to obtain such papers from the Governor 
that he may feave occasion for, relative to the Register's Office ; and 
that on his return, he shall produce what papers he may receive from 
the Governor to this committee. Grant was paid. 

On application from Mr. Peter Mullett, Ordered, That if Adam 
Boyd, does not pay P. Mallett, (on Monday next or before,) for the pa- 
per sold some days ago, (as well as what paper A. Boyd has in Ids hands,) 
that P. Mallett have leave to dispose of the same, on Tuesday next; or 
any time after, to such perskjns who may choose to purchase it. 

Monday, November 13, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the Committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman. Charles Jewkes, John Forster, 
James Geekie, William VVilkiUbOU, Hoiiry 'iouu.er, Peier iUuiieU, John 
Kirkwood. 

Mr. Chairman produced a Letter from Ricij'd Quince, esq. of Bruns- 
wick, purporting that a Man of War and u fcJuip, with 'iransporis, (or 
Troops) were arrived at Fort Johnston. 

On reading the above Letter, it was Ordered, that Messrs. Forster, 
Mallett, Wilkinson, and Jewkes, go round the town, and examine the 
Arms that may be in each Family ; alter reserving one Gun lor each 
white man that may be in the House, the remainder shall be vuiued by 
the above gentlemen, and a receipt given for them, mentioning tlieir 
value. Those who have new Guns to dispose ol, shall be allowed 
three for one; (in order to obtain an immediate supply of Arms on this 
immergent occasion) a receipt shall also be given for such Guns on 
account of the public, and for the use of the first Regiment under the 
command of col. James Moore. 

On application from capt. John Walker, Ordered, that 56 pounds of 



5i 

Gunpowder, and 221 pounds of Lead, be immediately delivered tocapt. 
"Walker, to be sent to the Camps at Bernard's creek, and that captain 
Walker's receipt be taken for the same. 



Wednksday, November 15th, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman. Wm. Wilkinson, John DnBois, 
Henry Toomer, John Forster, Wm. Ewins, James Geekie, John Kirk- 
wood, Charles Jewkes. 

Mr. Timothy Bloodworth came in with a message from the county 
committee, desiring that both the committees should be utiited ; find 
that this committee send a member to the next meeting of the county 
committee, to signify the opinion of this committee relative to their 
uniting. 

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that for the good 
order and safety of the county and town, a union should be effrcled he« 
tween tl^e two committees ; Ordered, That all the members of this 
committee, attend at the next meetincT of the county committee, to ac- 
quaint them with the opinion ofthi,s committee. 

Ordered, That notice be given to the white male inhabitants to meet 
on Monday next, at 10 o'clock, in the forenoon, at the Court House, to 
form themselves into companies of Militia, agreeable to n Resolve of 
the Congress lately held at Hillsborough; and that it Ix' recommended 
to the iniiabitants to have the officers chosen to each respective conjpa- 
ny on the same day. 



TeunsDAY, 16th, 1775. 
Whereas this committee inadvertently nominated John Du Bois and 
John Kirkwood as munbers of this committee, in the room of Samuel 
Campbell and Andrew Ronaldson, who declined serving in committee, 
instead of giving notice to the Freeholders to choose other persons in 
their place : Resolved, that the said nomination be void, and that the 
Order relative thereto be rescinded ; and as many members have since 
declined serving. Ordered, that the Secretary issue notice thereof to the 
Freeholders, summoning them to meet at the Court House, to-morrow 
morning, at 10 o'clock, to appoint others in the place of those who de- 
clined- 



Friday, November 17.. 1775, 
Agreeable to the notice of yesterday, the Freeholders met at the Court 
House, and elected Conielius Harnett, Arch'd Maclaiiie, John Du Bois, 
John Danbibin, John Kirkwood, and Hereld Blackraore, to serve in 
committee in place of James Walker, William Campbell, Samuel Camp- 
bell, Andrew Ronaldson, John Quince, and John Robeson, who decli- 
ned serving. 



Saturday, November 18, 1775. 
, Present : John Ancrum, chairman. Cornelius Harnett, A. Maclaine, 
John Forster, William Wilkinson, Henry Toomer, Charles Jewkes, 
William Ewans, James Geekie, Peter Mallett. 

Resolved, that no vessel whatever shall load any cargo, to any part of 
the world from this port, until further orders from this committee or 
some superior power. 



Monday, November 20th, 1775. 

At an occasi onal meeti ng. 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman. Cornelius Harnett, Wm. Wil- 
kinson, Henry Toomer, Wm. Ewins, John DuBois, John Forster, Jas. 
Geakie, John Kirkwood, John Dunbibin, Arch'd Maclaine. 

Oil motion, Wm. Wilkinson chosen Deputy Chairman, in place of 
Jamas Walker, who declined serving in committee. 

A Letter was produced from Richard Q,iunce, Sr., of Brunswick, in- 
forming that the committee of that town were of opinion that a battery 
might be raised to defend the town ; and requested that the Cannon be 
sent from hence for that purpose. 

Resolved, That the carriage guns be sent down, and delivered to 
Col. James Moore. 

On application from Mr. Sam. Campbell, for leave tosenddown pro- 
visions to the Cruiser Man of War, Resolved, That (as the Commander 
of the Sloop hath fired a number ol times on the troops under the com- 
mand of Col. Moore, without then- giving any provocation for such con- 
duct) no provisions of any kind be sent down to the cruiser, or any 
other Ship belonging to the Navy, till further orders. 

This Committee taking into consideiation the danger with which 
the inhabitants on Cape Fear River, are threatensd by the King's Ships 
now ia the harbor ; and the open and avowed contempt and violation 



m 

of juslice, 111 ihe conduct of Governor MavUn, who, with the assistance 
of the said Ships is endeavoring to carry off the artillery, the property 
of this Province, and the gift of his late Majesty of blessed memory, for 
our protection from foreign invasions ; have 

Resolved, That Messrs. JohnForster, William Wilkinson, and John 
Slingsby, or any one of them be impowered to procure necessary ves- 
sels, boats and chains to sink in such partof the channel as they or any 
of them may think proper. To agree for the purchase of such boats 
and other materials as may be wanted ; and to have them valued, that 
the owners may be reimbursed by the public. And, it is, further or- 
dered, that the said John Forster, &.c., do consult the committee of 
Brunswick on this measure, and request their concurrence. 

Ordered, That the Committee of Intelligence, write to Col. Howe, 
and the committe of Newbern, inform them of the dangerous situation 
of the inhabitants of Cape Fear, and request an immediate supply of 
gunpowder, to be sent by wagons or carts over land. 

Friday, November 24, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of the committee. 

Present: John Ancrum, Chairman, Cornelius Harnett, H. Toomer, 
John Kirkwood, James Geekie, Arch'dMaclaine, Charles Jewkes, Wm. 
Ewins, John DuBois. 

Ordered, That the Committee of Intelligence write to the Chair- 
man of the county committee, requesting him to procure all the fire-arms, 
he possibly can, for the use of Provincial Regulars ; as by information 
from (Jol. Moore, it is imagined that the Men of War, now at Fort 
Johnston, have an intention to attempt burning Brunswick, and after- 
wards, proceed to this town. 

Ordered, That the committee of Intelligence, write to the committee 
of Safety, for the district of Salisbury, informing them of the danger, 
the inhabitants of Cape Fear are in, from the Ships of War, now in the 
harbor ; and requesting them if they can do it with safety to themselves, 
to order down the troops stationed in that part of the Colony, armed as 
completely as possible. 

Ordered, That the Resolve of this committee forbidding vessels to 
load in this Port, be delivered to Captain Batchelor, and that he be in- 
formed if he perseveres in loading his vessel, he will be treated as an 
enemy of American Liberty. 



Ordered, that Messrs. Samuel Ashe, Frederick Jones, Robert Shawe, 
Benjamin Stone, WilHam Lord, WiUiamHill, Richard Q^uince, junior, 
Richard Bradley, William Purviance, and John Smith, be requested 
to attend in this town on the 29th day of November, instant, in order 
to value the houses, buildings, and other improvements therein, 
that may be liable to be destroyed, and that they or any three of them, 
do value the same upon oath, and make a return thereof to this com- 
mittee under their hands. 

Ordered, that this committee purchase up what lead maybe found in 
in this town, and that the same be run into balls of different sizes, as 
soon as possible, and that Solomon Hewitt be employed in making the 
same, as also cartriges ; and that this committee also purchase what 
Salt Petre and Brimstone may be had. 

This committee being informed that the above Solomon Hewitt has in 
his possession two 2 pound pieces : Ordered, that he produce the same 
to this committee, as soon as possible. 



Thursday, December 7, 1775. 

At an occasional meeting of this Committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman, William Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. Charles Jewkes, John Du Bois, Will. Ewins, John Slingsby, 
James Geekie, John Kirkwood, Jona. Dunbibin, Archibald Maclaine. 

On application from William Gibbs, for leave to charter a vessel in 
this River, to load with naval stores, that he has at Cape Lookout and 
Bogue, and intends to bring round here, if allowed by this committee, he 
having already obtained permission from the committee of Safety for 
the District of New Bern, to ship a quantity of Naval Stores that ho 
had cast away on the 2d September last. It is the opinion of this com- 
mittee, that should Mr. Gibbs charter capt. Bachelor's vessel, (or any 
other vessel) to load with Naval Stores, that the vessel shall not take 
said cargo on board in this river. 

Ordered, that Messrs. Henry Young, Geo. Hooper, William Whitfield, 
Phillip Jones, David Girdwood, and Richard Rundle, be requested to 
join the gentlemen formerly chosen to value the houses, &c. in town, and 
that they be desired to meet for that purpose on Tuesday, the 12th inst. 



Tuesday, December 19th, 1775. 
Present: John Ancrum, chairman, Will. Wilkinson, deputy chair- 



58 

man. Archibald Maclaine, John Forster, James Geekie, John Kirk- 
wood, WiUiam Ewans. Jona. Dunbibin. 

Ordered, that Ralph Millar be immediately supplied with 25 lbs. of 
Salt Petre, 7 lbs. Brimstone, and a large Mortar and Pestle, to enable 
him to make Gunpowder, which he is to produce to this committee, and 
that he be also supplied with 20 yards of Osnaburgs and two small 
weights ; that F. Brice shall procure the above articles, and have them 
sent up to John Nichols' Landing, in Bladen, for said Millar. 



"Wednesday, Dec, 20th, 1775. 

Present : William Wilkinson, Deputy Chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, 
John Forster, Henry Toomer, Charles Jewkes, John Kirkwood, Wm. 
Ewins, Herrall Blackmore, Jona. Dunbibin. 

On application made by Jona. Dix, and David Thompson, of the 
Massachusetts and Rhode Island government, for a pass to travel to their 
respective families ; as the said Dix and Thompson have not given a 
satisfactory account of themselves to this Committee ; and as there are 
some circumstances that make them appear inimical to the American 
cause : 

Ordered, That the said J. Dix and David Thompson be put under 
Guard ot Captain Dixon's Company, till inquiry shall be made about 
them; and an order of this Committee shall be passed for their release- 
ment. 



Friday, December 22d, 1775. 

Present: William Wilkinson, Deputy Chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, 
John Forster, Henry Toomer, Charles Jewkes, John Kirkwood, Wra. 
Ewins, John DuBois, James Geekie, 

On examination of Jona. Dix and David Thompson, (who were put 
under a Guard on the 20th inst.;) also, the papers they had in their 
possession (by which nothing could be found to prove them our ene- 
mies,) and their readiness to take and sign an oath administered by the 
Chairman, declaring themselves friends to America ; therefore 

Ordered, that the said Jonathan Dix and David Thomson be imme- 
diately released, and that a copy of the oath taken by them be delivered 
by the Secretary, to enable them to pursue their journey without any 
further hindrance. 



59 

Tuesday, January 2, 1776. 

Present: John Ancrum, chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. John Forster, H. Blackmore, Will. Ewans, James Geekie, John 
Du Bois, Henry Toomer, Jona. Dunbibin. 

This committee having received a Letter from the County Commit- 
tee, requesting the attendance of this committee at the Bridge this day ; 
Ordered, that the Chairman of this Committee and Herrall Blackmore 
attend the County Committee. Captain Batchelder applied for leave 
to clear out his Brig in Ballast, for New York. 

Resolved, that no vessel, whatever, in this port, clear out for any 
other port, until further orders from this committee or a superior power, 
and that captain Batchelder be served with a copy of this order. 



Friday, January 5, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. A. Maclaine, John Forster, Wm. Ewans, Jona. Uunbibin, Henry 
Toomer, John Du Bois, James Geekie, John Kirkwood, H. Blackmore, 

The trade of this Port depending so much upon good Pilots, and the 
Ships of War in the Harbor having already one or more of the Branch 
Pilots in their custody ; and the Captain of the Scorpion exacted from 
Thomas Bridges (another of the said Pilots,) his Parole of Honor to re- 
turn on board the said Ship, with an intention as it is conjectured, not 
only to deprive the good people of this Colony, of all benefit of trade, 
but to pilot our enemies up the River when it shall be thought expedi- 
ent to destroy the property of the inhabitants. It is the opinion of this 
Committee, that all the pilots of this river, be immediately secured, and 
that Col. Moore be requested to take them into his custody ; and it is 

Resolved, That as soon as the said pilots shall be safely secured, 
that notice be given to the Captain of the Scorpion, that the said Tho- 
mas Bridges is detained by order of this Committee. 

Ordered, That the two companies of Militia of this town, appear on 
the usual place of parading, properly armed and accoutred on next 
Monday week, as well every other inhabitant that has not drawn in 
either of the said companies, and that they do draw before the above 
day, and that the Test prescribed by the Provincial Council be signed. 

Ordered, That Messrs. Wilkinson and Toomer provide a house in 
this town as an additional Barrack for the Regulars under the com- 



60 



mand of col. Moore, to be appropriated to the use of an Hospital, and 
that a nurse be provided to take care of the sick. 



Saturday, January 6, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee. 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman, W. Wilkinson, deputy chairman, 
A. Maclaine, John Forster, Will. Ewans, John Kirkwood, John Du 
Bois, James Geekie, Herrall Blackmore. 

Mr. W. Campbell came into committee and presented a Letter Irom 
the Governor, requesting Mr. Campbell to send down two or three bar- 
rels of flour, a tub of butter, and some vegetables. 

Ordered, that Mr. Campbell have leave to send down two barrels of 
flour, a tub of butter, and some vegetables for His Excellency. 

A. Maclaine produced a Letter from the Governor to capt. Maclean, 
ordering him as an half pay oflicer, to embark for England, and capt. 
Maclean was of opinion, that should he wait on His Excellency, -he 
might obtain leave to continue in this Province some time longer. 

Resolved, that capt. Maclean shall not have leave to wait on the Go- 
vernor, but that he may write to the Governor, and that he shall shew 
the Letter to this committee, pursuant to a resolve of the Provincial 
Council. 

Ordered, that the custom-house ofiicers do not clear out any vessels 
from this port hereafter, without leave from this committee, or some 
superior power, and that the officers be served with this order. 

Pursuant to an order of this Committee, empowering certain persons 
therein named, or any three of them, to value the houses, buildings and 
enclosures in the town of Wilmington ; a paper has been returned by 
seven of the said, purporting to be a valuation of the buildings, <fcc., in 
the said town ; bu t as it appears that several of the said houses and 
buildings have Loen omitted ; that many of the fixtures, particularly 
those in the Still -huuse of Harnelt and Washington, have been totally 
overlooked; and iho said valucis declared that they did not include 
the fences and inclosures in their valuation ; this Committee have. 

Resolved, That the said valuation is incomplete, inasmuch that this 
order has not been complied with ; and it is further 

Resolved, That John Cheeseborough, Andrew Ronaldson, James 
Blythe, Geo. Jacobs, Malatia Hamilton, Wm. Purviance and Henry 
JButton, (or any three of them,) be empowered to value all the said 
houses, buildings and iaclosures in the said town, on oath ; and that 



they be sworn before Ihcy enter upon the said business ; and that they 
value the houses of O. Harnett, Esq., above the town, and those of 
Wm. Hooper, Esq., and the late Dr. Green below. 

Tuesday, January 9th, 1776. 

At a meetino- of this Committee. 

Present: William Wilkinson, Deputy Chairman. Corn's Harnett, 
A. Maclaine, Jno. Forster, John Kirk wood, Will. Ewans, H. Black- 
more, Jona. Dunbibin. 

Resolved, that Jacob Phelps, one of the pilots in this river, be em- 
ployed with his boat, to carry freight and passengers between Wilming- 
ton and Brunswick, and no further, without permission ; and that the 
said J. Phelps do not presume to take any passengers or freight, without 
the leave of one of the two committees of the said towns, or the com- 
manding officers of the forces at Brunswick or Wilmington ; and it is 
recommended to the people in general, that they eniploy the said Jacob 
Phelps' Boat only, as a passage boat; and it is further Resolved, that 
no other person, but such as the said Phelps may employ, shall have 
liberty to carry any freight or passengers to Brunswick, witliout the 
leave of this committee, or the commanding officer at Wilmington, to 
the end that such persons as may have inimical designs against the 
country, may be prevented from carrying intelligence to the Governor 
or Ships of War. 

Resolved, that Jonathan Swain, another of the pilots, have liberty to 
remove with his family from his usual place of lesidence, about two or 
three miles back; that Benjamin Bill may be employed, if he thinks 
proper, on board the Provincial Ship, but that he shall not have liberty 
to go to his usual place of residence, and that Thomas Galloway con- 
tinue at some convenient place near the New Inlet, in order to be ready 
to pilot in any vessels which may be allowed to trade in this province, 
and that it be recommended to the Provincial Council and Committee 
of Safety for Wilmington district, to make an adequate allowance to 
the said Thomas Galloway towards the maintenance of his family. 

Ordered, That Mr. John Forster, receive all the Salt petre Lead and 
Brimstone, in Wilmington, and that he give receipts for tlie same. And 
that 4s. per lb. be allowed for all salt petre. 



Saturday, January 12th, 1776. 
Present: John Ancrum, Chairman. A. Maclaine, Jno. Forster, J, 



62 

Kirkwood; Wm. Ewins, Jno. Slingsby, J. Dunbibin, Jno. DuBois, Jas. 
Geekie, Henry Toomer. 

Ordered, That Dr. Geekie supply the following- articles for the use 
of the Hospital, and that he be repaid by this Committee; a middle 
size pot, a small ditto, 2 skillets, a water jug, 2 pint mugs, 4 pint bowls, 
2 large tea pots, 2 jardens, i doz. pewter spoons. 

Ordered, That the Chairman write to Ralph Millar, requesting his 
attendance on this Committee, and informing him, that they are willing 
to allow him 10s. per day for himself (he finding charcoal and making 
20 lbs. powder per day ;) that he attend as soon as possible to enter into 
an agreement for that purpose and take the negroes into his possession. 



Monday, January 15th, 1776. 

At a meeting of the Committee ; 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, Deputy Chair- 
man. A. IMaclaine, J. Forster, H. Blackmore, H. Toomer, Jas. Geekie, 
Jno. Slingsby, Jno. Kirkwood, Wm. Ewins. 

A paper writing containing two sheets signed, a Lawyer, and address- 
ed " To those who have a true sense of distributive justice and un- 
trameled liberty ., residents of the borough of Wilmington," having been 
produced by the Chairman, who found it put up to public view under 
the Court House, and it having been acknowledged by a certain William 
Green to be his hand writing, and the said Will. Green having made oath 
that he received the writing from which it was copied from Dr. Fallon, 
to whom he returned the original as well as the copy, and the said Dr. 
Fallon, in person, having justified the said papers : It is, therefore, Re- 
solved, that the said Dr. Fallon appears to this committee to be the au- 
thor and publisher of the said paper. 

Resolved, that the said paper contains many false and scandalous re- 
flections on this committee, tending to inflame the minds of the people ; 
to create divisions and dissensions amongst us, by destroying that una- 
nimity so essentially necessary to our mutual defence ; and also con- 
taining an illiberal and groundless charge against a respectable gentle- 
man, deservedly high in office m this colony : 

Resolved, also, that tlie said Dr. Fallon be kept in close custody, until 
he give security for his good behavior for and during the space of six 
months, in the sum of £ 500, proclamation money. And the said Dr. 
Fallon having refused to give such security, was ordered into custody. 



63 

Tuesday, January 16, 1776. 

At a meeting of the Committee ; 

Present: Joiin Ancrum, Chairman, William Wilkinson, Deputy 
Chairman. Arch'd Maclaine, John Forster, Henry Toomer, llerrall 
Blackmore, John Slingsby, James Geekie, Wm. Ewins, John Kirk- 
wood. 

Whereas, the Continental Congress, on the Istday of November, last, 
" Resolved, that New York, the lower counties on Delaware, North 
" Carolina, and Georgia, ought to avail themselves of the benefit al- 
" lowed to them by the late restraining act, and therefore, that no per- 
" son should apply at the Custom-houses in those Colonies for clear- 
" ances or other documents, which other Colonies are deprived of by 
" said restraining act, for securing the navigation of vessels with car- 
f'goes from their Ports." It is, therefore, 

Resolved, That no person, whatever, do presume to apply to the 
Custom-house for clearances, without first obtaining leave from this or 
some other Committee for that purpose ; and that this Resolve be made 
public, and a copy delivered to the officers of the Customs, 

Resolved, That the resolution of this Committee, passed the 6th inst., 
ordering the Custom-house officers not to clear out vessels without leave 
be rescinded. 

Captain Alexander Maclean having gone down to the ship Cruiser, 
and been with the Governor, contrary to a resolve of the Provincial 
Council, and also, an order of this Committee. 

Resolved, therefore. That he, the said Alexander Maclean be sent 
for, to come before this Committee, to answer such breach aforesaid, and 
give security for his good behavior ; which he has accordingly done, 
himself, James Walker, and Arch'd Maclaine, in the sum of five hun- 
dred pounds proclamation money, for six months, if he continues in the 
Province so long. 

Ordered, that permission be granted to captain Butterfield to clear 
out his schooner in ballast only. Also, to captain Bachelder to clear 
his brig out, he having nothing on board but ballast and necessary sea 
stores. Captain Bachelder also had leave to send a letter to the Gover- 
nor, desiring to know if his vessel would be prevented from going out 
of this river. 

Ordered, that William Wilkinson be appointed to receive all the Salt" 
Petre, Brimstone, and Lead, in the room of John Forster, who was ap- 



«4 

pointed on the 9tli insl. ior that purpose, and that Mr, Wilkinson give 
receipts for the same. 

Messrs. ForsterandGeekiehaviiio- called on Dr. I'-allon to know if he 
intended to give the security r-^qnired by the conimittee, they reported 
to this committee that Dr. Fahon relused to give any security. 

The committee adjourned to 5 o'clock this evening. 

Tuesday Evening, 5 o'clock. 

The committee met according to adjournment. 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. Henry Toomer, H. l^lackmore, John Forster, Jona. Dunbibin, 
James Geekie, Arch'd Maclaine, John Slingsby, Will. Ewins, John 
Kirkwoood. 

Resolved, that Dr. Fallon be continued under guard for the present 
time, and that colonel Moore be requested to refuse admittance to any 
person, but such as he or the officer on guard may think proper; and 
that Dr. Fallon be not precluded from the use of pen, ink, and paper, 
but that when the officer on guard may think he has any letters to send 
out, and requests admittance for any particular person, such person 
may be admitted for so long a time as the officer may think proper, but 
that such person be carefully searched on his departure, and any letters 
that maybe found upon him, to be carried to the commandnig officer. 

The committee adjourned. 



Wednesday, January 17, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee ; 

Present: John Ancrum, Chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, Deputy Chair- 
man. Arch'd Madame, Corn's Harnett, Herrall Blackmore, Jonathan 
Dunbibin, John Kirkwood, Henry Toomer, Jno. Slingsby, John Du- 
Bois. 

Col. Moore having requested of this Committee to furnish him with 
50 stand of arms. 

On motion. Ordered that John Ancrum, William Wilkinson, John 
DuBois, and Jona. Dunbibin be requested to call respectively on the 
inliabitants of this town to-morrow, and borrow from them such guns 
as they can spare, to supply Col. Moore, as soon as possible with the 
number of guns he wants — they having such guns valued, and giving 
proper receipts for them to the owners. 

Col. Moore having informed this committee that he looks upon Dr. 



Fallon to be an insinuating and dangerous person among tlie soldiers, 
and that he cannot, without injuring the common cause, and running 
the risk of the public safety, any longer keep the said Fallon in the 
Guard House. 

Resolved, That he, the said Dr. Fallon be committed to the common 
Jail to-morrow morning, at eleven o'clock, there to remain until he 
makes a full concession for his offences to the public, and asks pardon 
of this Committee for the repeated insults which he has in person offer- 
ed. 

Resolved, That Col. Moore be requested to order a Guard to attend 
near the Jail and to give strict orders that the soldiers shall not con- 
verse with Dr. Fallon, that no person be admitted to speak to him but by 
leave of the officer on Guard, and that no letter or writing be suffer- 
ed to be sent out by the Doctor without the inspection of such Officer. 

The Committee adjourned. 



Thursday, January 18, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee. 

Present .* William Wilkinson, deputy chairman. Henry Toomer, 
John Slingsby, John Forster, Arch'd Maclaine, James Geekie, William 
Ewins, Jona. Dunbibin. 

A letter from John Ashe, esq. to Dr. Fallon, requesting the Doctor to 
attend his family, being laid before this committee, in answer thereto, 
Resolved, that a copy of the Resolves of this Committee relative to Dr. 
Fallon, be inclosed by the Secretary to colonel Ashe. 

The committee adjourned. 



Saturday, January 20, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee. 

Present ; John Ancrum, chairman, Wm, Wilkinson, deputy chair> 
man. Henry Toomer, John Forster, Arch'd Maclaine, John Du Bois, 
James Geekie, John Kirkwood, H. Blackmore, 

On the application of William Gause and others, in behalf of them- 
selves and the inhabitants of Chalottee and I<ockwood's Folly, setting 
forth their apprehensions of danger from the people of Waggaman, and 
requesting of this conjmittee a small supply of powder, to enable them 
to act in their own defence in case they should be attacked. 

Ordered, that 20 lbs. of Gunpowder be supplied to William Gaufee, 

9 



from the stock of this Committee, for the use of the inhabitants of Lock- 
wood's Folly and Chalottee, when the said Cause applies for the same. 

"Whereas, this Committee on the 17th inst., issued a Mittimus to the 
Sheriff of New Hanover Co., requiring the said Sheriff and the keeper of 
the jail, safely to keep the body of James Fallon, until he should give 
sufficient security for his good behavior to the public, for the space of 
six months in the sum of £ 500 prock money ; and until he should 
make a full concession for his offences to the public, and ask pardon of 
this Committee for the repeated insults which he has in person offered. 
And, whereas, it appears to this Committee that the prison door has 
been kept open, and all such persons as applied for admission to Doct'r 
Fallon, have had liberty to enter; and the said Dr. Fallon has been 
permitted to write Letters and send them out, without any inspection, 
although in one of those Letters to the Sheriff, he continues to repeat 
and justify his offences, and as the intention of imprisoning the said 
Dr. J. Fallon, was to prevent him for the future, from disturbing the 
peace of society ; this Committee have 

Resolved, That the Sheriff and jailor give strict orders that no per- 
son be admitted to Dr. Fallon, (except in case of sickness) but a servant 
to carry him necessaries, and keep his department clean ; and that the 
said Fallon shall not be suffered to send out any letters or writings but 
such as may be approved of, by this Committee, or the commanding of- 
ficer of the forces, and that the prison door be kept locked. 

Ordered, That a copy of the above be sent to the Sheriff. 

Resolved, That a Resolve on the 18th inst., to send copies of the pro- 
ceedings of this Committee to John Ashe, Esq., be rescinded. 

Saturday night, 9 o'clock. 

At a meeting of the Committee ; 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, Deputy Chair- 
man. John Forster, Herrall Blackmore, John Kirkwood, Dr. Gee- 
kie, Arch'd Maclaine, Jno. DuBois, Wm. Ewins, Henry Toomer. 

Resolved, That it be recommended to the commanding officers of 
the Militia in Wilmington, to warn their companies to be ready at the 
Court House to night completely accoutred at the beat of the dnjm. 

Monday, January 22, 1776. 
At a meeting of the committee, 
l^osent : Wm. Wilkinson, deputy chairman. John Forster, James 



6i 

Geekis, Wm. Ewans, H. Blackmore, John Kirkwood, Henry Toomer, 
Jona. Dunbibin. 

D. Fallon having appUedby letter to the chairman of this committee 
for a copy of a paper writing signed A Lawyer, and the proceedings of 
the committee against him : 

Ordered, that the iSecretary supply Dr. Fallon with a copy of the 
proceedings of this committee against him, as author of a certain paper 
signed A Lawyer, but not with a copy of the said paper. 

The committee adjourned. 



Saturday, January 27, 1776. 

At a meeting of the committee : 

Present : John Ancrum, chairman, William Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. John Forster, Arch'd Maclaine, John Kirkwood, Wm. Ewans, 
James Geekie, H. Blackmore, Jona. Du Bois 

The Governor having summoned his Majesty's Council to attend 
him on board the Scorpion sloop of war, and several of his Majesty's 
Council being in this town, on their way to attend on the Governor, 
agreeable to said summons : 

Resolved, that this committee are bound by a Resolve of the Provin- 
cial Council, to prevent any persons from waiting on .Governor Martin, 
and particularly at this present time, this Committee cannot consistent 
with the safety of the country permit his Majesty's Coi^ncil to attend (the 
Governor ; and the chairman is ordered to write respectively to each of 
the Council who may be in town, and acquaint them with this resolve. 

A letter from colonel Parry, commander of the Cruiser, to captain 
Bachelder, informing him he would give him leave to pass with his 
vessel, provided he brought down the provisions demanded from Mr. 
Campbell : Tliereupon, Resolved, that the requisition of capt. Parry 
is an insult to this committee, and for the future, if any provisions are 
suffered to go down to the man of war, they shall be sent down in small 
boats, as usual. 

The Committee adjourned. 

Saturday, Jan'y 28th, 1776. 
At a meeting of the Committee ; 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, Deputy Chair- 
man. Jona. Dunbibin, Arch'd Maclaine, Jno. Forster, Jno. Kirkwood, 
Dr. Geekie, Jno. DuBois, Wm. Ewins. 



Captain Walker informed this Committee that he had in custod/, un- 
der a Guard, Mr. William Mactier, who was, about 10 o'clock last 
night, with three other persons going to Brunswick in a boat ; that Mr. 
Mactier refused to comply with his requisition in giving his word of 
honor that he would not go further than Brunswick, without applying 
to Col. Moore ; and Mr. Mactier being brought before the Committee, 
and alledging that he had leave from some of the members thereof, and 
it appearing that no leave had been granted : 

Resolved, That Captain Walker has done his duty in taking Mr. 
Mactier into custody and keeping him under a Guard. 

Resolved, Also (Mactier having declined for the present to sign the 
test recommended by the Provincial Congress) that he shall not have 
leave to go down the river on any pretence whatever, until he satisfies 
this Committee that he is a friend to the American cause, and enter in- 
to such obligation as may be thought necessary. 

Resolved, That Captain Walker discharge Mr, Mactier from the 

Guard. 

Wednesday, January 31, 1776^^ 

At a meeting of the committee. 

Present: John Ancrum, chairman. Will. Wilkinson, deputy chair- 
man. John Forster, Dr. Geekie, Arch'd Maclaine, Henry Toomer, 
Jona. Dunbibin, Wm. Ewans, John Kirkwood, John Du Bois. 

Major Clark having applied to this committee for 2 dozen spades, to 
finish the entrenchments begun below the town of Wilmington : 

Ordered, that major Clark may purchase 2 dozen of spades and give 
receipts for the same, to be paid by a warrant from the Provincial 
Council on the Treasury. 

Whereas, a former order passed in this committee for Mr. Hewitt to be 
employed to make cartriges. 

Ordered, that Mr. Hewitt be immediately set to work to make cart- 
riges, and be allowed one dollar per day, when employed in that ser- 
vice, till a further agreement with him, and that he be supplied with 
paper, &c. for that purpose, and that Mr. Dunbibin purchase and give 
receipts for the same, in the name of the committee. 

The committee adjourned. 



Friday, February 2, 1776. 
At a meeting of the committee. 
Present; John Ancrum, chairman. .John Forster, Wm. Ewins, J. 



Kirkwood, Henry Toomer, John Du Bois. Jona. Dunbibin, H. Black- 
more, James Geekie, John Slingsby. 

Information having been made to this committee, that a certain 

Mixon, who lives on the Sound near to President Hasell's, goes ire- 
qiiently on board the Man of War, and that John Porter, a miller to Mr. 
J, Robeson, can inform this committee particularly of the said Mixon's 
conduct : 

Ordered, That the Chairman, Captain Forster, and John Slingsby, 
be appointed to examine John Porter, and if any proof should appear 
against the said Mixon, acting inimical to the American cause, or going 
on board the Man of War, they are to apply to the Commanding officer 
in town to take him into custody. 

Whereas, a former Resolve of this Committee passed requesting all 
persons who had not signed the test, recommended by the Provincial 
Council, to sign the same, and as many persons have neglected to com- 
ply with such request, it is, therefore 

Resolved, That James Grant call on all those who have not signed 
anJ. tender them the test, and such persons as refuse to sign, he is to 
make a return of their names to this Committee. 

The Committee adjourned. 



Monday, Feb'y 5th, 1776. 
At a meeting of the Committee : 

Present: John Ancrum, Chairman, William Wilkinson, Deputy 
Chairman. John Forster, Jno. Slingsby, Jno. DuBois, Jno.Kirkwood, 
Jona. Dunbibin, Henry Toomer, Wm. Ewins, Arch'd Maclaine, Her- 
rall Blackmore. 

Mr. Nash presented to the chairman, a letter from Governor Martin, 
to Maurice Moore, Esq., in answer to one the committee permitted him 
to send to the Governor — which was read in Committee, and returned 
to Mr. Nash. 

A letter from the Governor to the Council was also read, in answer 
to theirs read in Committee 2Sth January. 

Col. Aloore having informed this Committee that the Men of War, 
lying at Fort Johnston, had committed hostilities on the Continental 
Troops under his command, by firmg on them at the said Fort ; and 
as the Committee of safety passed a Resolve that the Cruiser Sloop of 
War, might be supplied with provision from time to time, &o long as 



^0 

she did not commit hostilities on tlie persons or properties of the good 
people of this Province. 

Resolved, That the ships of warnow lying: in this river, have actu- 
ally committed hostilities against the inhabitants of this Province, and 
therefore, this Committee in obedience to the said resolve of the Com- 
mittee of safety, cannot suffer any more provision to go down to the 
Men of War, for the future. 

Ordered, that a copy of th.e above resolve be delivered to the agent 
for supplying the stationed ship in this Port. 

Doctor Fallon, by letter to the Chairman, having signified an inten- 
tion to come under recognizance to the public for his good behavior : 

Ordered, That Arch'd Maclaine, Captain Blackmore, Dr. Geekie and 
JohnSlingsby be appointed to make out a form of recognizance for Dr. 
Fallow to sign, and that he be serv^ed with a copy. 

The Committee adjourned. 



At a meeting of the Committee, Feb'y 9th, 1776. 

Present : John Ancrum, Chairman, Wm. Wilkinson, Deputy Chair- 
man. Wm. Ewins, Jno. DuBois, Cornelius Harnett, Herrall Black- 
more, Jno. Kirkwood, Jona. Dunbibin, Henry Toomer. 

I : A. B. do freely and voluntarily swear, that in my opinion and 
sincere belief, neither the Parliament of Great Britain, nor any Member 
or constituent branch thereof, have a right to impose Taxes upon 
the American Colonies, to regulate the internal policy thereof, and that 
all attempts by fraud or force to establish and exercise such claims and 
powers are violations of the peace and security of the people, and ought 
to be resisted to the utmost, and that the people of this Colony singly 
and collectively are bound by the acts of the Continental and Provin- 
cial Congresses, because in both, they are freely represented by persons 
chosen by themselves ; and 1 do solemnly swear to support, maintain 
and defend all and every the acts, resolutions and regulations of the 
said Continental and Provincial Congresses, to the utmost of my power 
and abilities — So help me God. 

The Committee took the above Oath, and Resolved that the Captains 
of the two Companies shall muster their Men immediately, and tender 
the same to every M^n in Wilmington, without exception, and whoever 
shall refuse or decline voluntarily to take the said Oath, shall, by the 



n 



Militia Oilicers aforesaid, be disarmed as inimical to the liberties of 
America. 



1775. 

March 7 

13 

May 20 
June 20 



Cash Received for Account of this Committee. 

Rec'd for sundry fines, per the Minister of the com- 
mittee this day £ 

do on the sale of sundry goods per do 

do of Corn's Harnett, esq., for his subscription for 
purchasing gunpowder per do 

do for sundry fines per do 

do do from Bladen County by the hands of Nathaniel 







Richardson, good bills including one of J. Ashe's 


36 11 2 






1 bill counterfeit 




2 




do from Corn's Harnett to purchase gunpowder 


5 




do 


do J. Walker for 


do 


5 




do 


do Wm. Campbell 


do 


5 




do 


do Henry Toomer 


do 


5 




do 


do Robert Bannerman 


do 


2 




do 


do Jona. Dunbibin 


do 


1 




do 


do Jas. Moore 


do 


5 




do 


do Wm. Wilkinson 


do 


6 




do 


do Jno. Forster 


do 


2 10 




do 


do F's Brice 


do 


2 10 




do 


do Dr. Geekie 


do 


1 10 




do 


do J. Kennedy 


do 


5 6 




do 


do Jno. Robeson 


do 


2 10 




do 


do Jno. Cruden 


do 


2 10 




do 


do Fra's Clayton 


do 


5 




do 


do Rich'd Bradley 


do 


1 




do 


do Jno. Slingsby 


do 


5 




do 


do Dr,Cobham 


do 


2 10 


July 9 


do 


do Peter Mallett 


do 


2 10 




do 


do Wm. Jones, jr. 


do 


10 


1776 










Aug. 1. 


RecM of Geo. Moore, esq. his subscription 


20 


Jan. 23 


do 


of Henry Young as per certificates from the Pro- 








vincial Council on the Treasurer 




206 




£391 12 1 



73 



Cash Paid for Account of the Committee. 
v775 Paid Owen Kenan the balance due him by the Corn- 
March 7 mittee appointed to receive the donations for the 
poor of Boston. 
Paid James Grant for 10 days attendance on the Com- 
mittee, this day included at Ss. 
do for writing paper 
do \Vm. Mactier, last March for gunpowder 3s. per 

lb. 200 lbs. 
do James Harper's boy for his expenses on two ex- 
presses 
do James Harper his account for boy and horse for 

two expresses 
do Jas. Grant for 6 days attendance on committee 8s, 
do for paper 
Jane 20 do Burgwin, Humphrey & Co. for gunpowder at 3&. 
per lb, 350 
do John Slingsby for do. at 3s, per lb. 50 lbs. 
do for cleaning out the Court House to Jas. Grant 
July 5 do for a trunk to keep books and papers in 
do for gilt and common paper 

do Leehans DeKeyser for his boys expenses to Ons- 
low express 

8 do Adam Boyd tor printing, &c. 

9 do G. & T. Hooper for 1 set of bullet moulds 

11 do for 4 quires of paper 

12 do Jno. Blythe for an express to Anson 
do for candles 

12 do Mr. DeKeyser's Quosh for expenses to New Ri- 
ver express 

15 do Mr. Harper's boy to go express to Bladen 
do for a pair of shears to cut balls and paper 
do for rum for the people casting balls 
do Mr. Doherty for 23 lbs. low mould shot 
nc R. chard Bradley for 2 bis. pork 
do Jno. DuBois for 50 lbs. shot 

18 do expenses making cartridges 



5 



4 





2 


8 


30 





1 10 





4 





2 8 





2 


8 


52 10 





7 10 





2 


6 


18 





5 


8 


1 6 


8 


5 4 


8 


2 15 





8 





2 8 





1 


6 


1 





r 





4 


6 


4 





11 6 





7 10 





1 5 





1 5 


4 



cJo Andrews for bread for his people 

do Leeh. DeKeyser for furnishing two expresses 

do James Harper for an express to Bladen 

do Jona. Dunbibin for bread 

do James Grant in part for attendance 

do Yelverton Fowkes for 1 barrel of gunpowder 133 I 

lbs. at 3s. 6d. 
do for wax 
do for Harper's boy 
do for an inkstand 
do Cash for an express omitted 
Aug. 10 do Hogg & Campbell for floiu- 
12 do James Grant in full 

do Jno. Robeson for Middlings 

do Mr. Harper's boy to carry the Onslow and Newbern 

express 
do Charles Jewkes for 300 flints at Ss. 
do Richard Player for moulding balls 
do Henry Toomer for beef 
do John Lyon for 6 casks bread 
do Geo. McCulloh for beef 

In hand, a counterfeit bill from Bladen 
" " " " oneof J. Ashe's notes 
1776 
Jan. 26 do for guns as per account No. 1 
(Jo " " «« «« « "2 
do for 7 lbs. brimstone sent to Ralph Miller at 6(1 
do for 20 yds. Osnaburgs at 2s. 
do for 2 weights 

do for a large Mortar and Pestle 54 lbs. at 6d 
do James Grant in part for attendance 
30 do Richard Player for rcparing 1 gun more than in the 
account rendered against the public 
Feb'y 1 do John Robeson for salt petre 
'14 do James Grant per Rcc't 
April 4 do do do 

do James Harper in part of his account 

deducted for the fines of Fran's Clayton ami 





7 





G 


8 





1 


12 





1 


12 


6 


1 








23 


6 


9 




3 







5 







3 


4 




10 





3 15 10 


9 


4 





S 


1 


9 




5 





1 


4 





3 








9 


2 


9 


9 


6 





2 


6 


5 


2 








2 








7 


1 





84 


5 


10 




3 


6 


2 










3 


4 


1 


7 







10 







5 


e 


8 11 


8^ 


8 








1 








15 









74 

William Jones, which were nat paid to me tho' 
entered to the credit of the Committee 

12 do John Walker 

19 do James Wilson, one of the South Carolina Recruits 

27 do Henry Toomer for negro hire 

May 2 do two men who escaped from the Men of War 

13 do three men who escaped from do 



16 





12 





5 





3 12 





4 





1 4 






John Ancrum appointed and chosen by a majority of tlie members, 
as Chairman, and William Wilkinson, Deputy Chairman ; this 29th 
October, 1776. 



WILMINGTON, JUNE 12, 1775. 

1 do voluntarily and solemnly swear, upon the Holy Evangelists of Al- 
mighty God, that I will not reveal or make known to any person or persons 
whatsoever, any Intelligence, circumstance, matter or thing, which the majo- 
rity of the committee present shall think necessary to conceal, and which the 
Committee by the Chairman, Deputy Chairman, or other presiding member 
shall order and direct to be kept secret, 

JOHN aUINCE. JOHN DEVANE. 

JAMES GRANT. CORN'S HARNETT. 

TIMOTHY BLOODWORTH. R. HOWE. 

THOS. BLOODWORTH. JA. MOORE. 

WM. PURVIANCE. FRANCIS CLAYTON. 

FRED'K JONES. JOHN ASHE. 

WM. ROBESON. JOHN ANCRUM. 

JOHN COLVIN. SAM. MARSHALL. 

RICH'D aUINCE, Jr. JAS. BLYTH, 

JNO. ROBESON, A. MACLAINE. 

SAMPSON MOSELEY. THOS CRAIKE. 

THOS. BROWN. , WILLIAM EWANS. 

THOS. OWEN. ANDREW RONALDSON. 

FAITH. GRAHAM. JAMES WALKER. 

SAM. ASHE. ROB'T HOGG. 



^ 



IN COMMITTEE, JULY 5, 1 

Ij A. B. do voluntarily and solemnly swear, upon the 
Almighty God, that I will not reveal or make known to any 
whatsoever, any Intelligence, circumstance, matter or thinsr, v 
ity of the Committee present shall think necessary to conceal 
Committee, by the Chairman, Deputy Chairman, or other pres' 
shall order and direct to be kept secret. 



JNO. ROBESON. 

FRANCIS CLAYTON. 

WM. CAMPBELL. 

WILLIAM EWANS. 

JAS. BLYTH. 

ANDREW RONALDSON. 

HENRY TOOMER. 

JOHN A. CAMPBELL. 

THOS. NIXON. 
SAMUEL COLLYER, 

CORN'S HARNETT. 
JONA. DUNBIBIN. 
A. MACLAINE. 
ADAM BOYD. 
JAMES WALKER. 
JOHN DU BOIS. 
PETER MALLETT. 
JOHN ANCRUM. 
JNO. aUINCE. 
CALEB GRAINGER. 
JNO. FORSTER. 
FRAN'S BRICE, 
WM. WILKINSON. 



JAS. GEEKIE. 

JAMES TATE, 

P. QUINCE. 

ALEX. LILLINGTON. 

THOS. DEVANE. 

JOHN MARSHALL. 

WILL. LORD. 

WM. DAVIS. 

NATH. RICHARDSON. 

SAM. SWANN. 

JAS. WRIGHT. 

STEPHEN DANIELL. 

WILLIAM JONES. 
GEO. MERRICK. 
JOHN HOLLINSWORTH. 
CHARLES WARD. 
GEORGE MOORE. 
WILL. JONES, Jr. 
JOHN BAPTIST ASHE. 
WALTER GIBSON. 
G. MITCHELL. 
EDWARD WARD. 
JAMES BELL. 



76 

OCTOBER 25 TH, 1775. 
;he New Committee, we the following members, &c., took 
^y, as amiexed : 

RUM. PETER MALLETT. 

BRICE. JAS. GEEKIE. 

•^BELL. JNO. SLINGSBY. 

JEWKES. JNO. KIRKWOOD. 

f. EWINS. JAMES GRANT, [waiter.J 

JRSTER. WILLIAM WILKINSON. 

_ TOOMER. HERRALL BLACKMORE- 

DUBOIS. 



^ 



